Firefighters continue to battle a large moorland fire at Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, Oldham, after it broke out on Saturday evening. The blaze, which began just before 8:40 PM on July 11, prompted residents to report hearing “loud bangs” before the fire spread rapidly across the dry terrain.
Offensive Firefighting Operation Underway
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed that crews have moved into an “offensive firefighting operation” using hose lines to tackle the fire. The service described the terrain as “challenging” and requested additional firefighters to assist. Relief crews rotated through the incident overnight to maintain operations. A water supply has been established, and specialist wildfire officers, a Burns Team, and supervisory officers remain on scene.
In an update on Monday morning, GMFRS stated: “Firefighters remain at the scene of a moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield after crews were called shortly before 8:40pm on Saturday evening following reports of a grass fire. Fire engines from across Greater Manchester, alongside specialist wildfire officers, a Burns Team and supervisory officers, attended the incident. Following a scene assessment, additional firefighters were requested to assist crews working in challenging terrain. Throughout Sunday and overnight, firefighters continued working to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading across the moorland, with relief crews rotating through the incident to maintain firefighting operations. A water supply has now been established and firefighters have moved into an offensive firefighting operation using hose lines to tackle the fire. Additional command officers and specialist wildfire personnel have also been mobilised to support the response. Crews remain at the scene this morning continuing to extinguish hotspots, contain the fire and monitor the area.”
Fireworks and Identification of Youths
Videos circulating on social media showed fireworks being set off on the moorland at Dovestone. Councillor Keiron Lawrence, Reform UK councillor for Ashton Hurst, stated that the “reckless” videos were being reviewed and that “some of those responsible” had been identified. In a statement, he said: “I have been in contact with residents throughout the day regarding the fires that appear to have been started through completely irresponsible behaviour. I won't hold back. Those responsible, some I can confirm have been identified, should face the full consequences available, whilst including substantial fines where appropriate. I understand this group had gathered to pay their respects to their friend who tragically lost his life at Dovestones Reservoir. I genuinely do not believe anyone set out intending to start a wildfire. However, intent does not remove responsibility. The lack of common sense, disregard for the environment, and apparent lack of respect for our beautiful countryside is simply unacceptable. A single reckless act can have devastating consequences for wildlife, the landscape, nearby communities, and the emergency services who have to put themselves at risk to deal with it. Our firefighters and all emergency service personnel have worked tirelessly in extremely difficult conditions to contain the blaze. Every one of them deserves our gratitude and respect. Like many others, I have seen videos circulating on social media, including footage that has been sent directly to me by residents from across Tameside. My understanding is that this material is being reviewed by the relevant authorities. I genuinely struggle to comprehend how anyone could behave with such a staggering lack of judgement, especially given the dry conditions and the well-publicised fire risk. Actions have consequences, and those responsible should be held accountable.”
Police Enquiries and Wider Impact
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they are carrying out enquiries into the fire. A spokesperson said: “We have received a report, and officers are following lines of enquiry.” The cause of the blaze has not yet been officially confirmed by GMFRS.
The smoke from the fire was visible for miles, with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service reporting that smoke in south Liverpool originated from this incident and another blaze near Sychnant Pass on Conwy Mountain in North Wales. Just before 9:30 PM on Sunday, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service advised residents to keep windows and doors closed and to keep medication nearby if they have existing medical conditions. A spokesperson said this morning that further reports of smoke in Merseyside had been received overnight.
Context of Recent Tragedy
The fire occurred barely 24 hours after the tragic death of 18-year-old Karl Holland at Dovestone Reservoir on Friday, July 10. Holland was pronounced dead after getting into difficulties at the beauty spot in Saddleworth. Tributes have since been paid to a “kindhearted, beautiful boy.”
