Arson Investigation Underway After Fireworks Trigger Blaze
A 20-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson as firefighters continue to battle a major wildfire on the moors above Saddleworth, Greater Manchester. The fire, which broke out on Saturday evening, has now been burning for three days, with thick plumes of smoke spreading across the region.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the woman was detained in Oldham on Monday morning and remains in custody for questioning. The arrest follows concerns about fireworks being set off near Dovestone Reservoir shortly before the fire started. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud bangs, and social media videos show a group of youths setting off fireworks in dry grass, which quickly ignited a blaze.
Emergency Services Battle Challenging Terrain
Fire crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have been at the scene since Saturday evening. Head of Response Ben Levy said the operation could last for days due to the difficult terrain. "You can see the terrain we've got behind us. It's not just open moorland, there's some very, very steep moorland. There's cliffs, there's steep rocks. It's very challenging to get in between there to control the fire," he told the Manchester Evening News.
United Utilities helicopters have been drafted in to pour water over the site. A major incident has been declared, and residents are urged to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to smoke.
Smoke Blankets Greater Manchester
Smoke from the fire has been blown across large parts of Greater Manchester, including Stockport, Levenshulme, Eccles, and Sale. The smell of smoke has been reported as far south as Stockport. The fire service said windy conditions caused the plume to travel across the region.
Local residents expressed shock and frustration. One woman, who did not want to be named, said: "It's crazy. Absolutely baffling. I cannot even begin to fathom or understand it. There are signs everywhere saying 'no fireworks.'" Another resident added: "I feel like we're getting used to it. It has happened that often. But it seems to have gotten worse in the last five years or so."
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Inspector Andrew Day of Oldham CID urged the public to stop speculating online and report any information to police. "We are aware of social media posts circulating regarding this incident and would like to stress that this is a live police investigation. We would encourage people stop speculating regarding this and if you do have information, please report it to ourselves," he said.
The fire is believed to have started near Dovestone Reservoir, where a group had gathered to pay tribute to 18-year-old Karl Holland, who died after getting into difficulties in the water on Friday night. His body was recovered from the scene later.
