The massive wildfire on Tintwistle Moor has been contained, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed on Friday afternoon (June 26). Firefighters remain on scene to dampen down the area and check for hot spots, using specialist vehicles and equipment to monitor the situation and weather conditions.
Firefighters and Partners Work Together
The fire broke out on Thursday evening and has affected approximately 200 hectares of moorland. Thick plumes of smoke have been visible over the villages of Tintwistle, Hollingworth, and Woolley Bridge since the blaze erupted. Emergency services, including crews from Derbyshire and Greater Manchester fire services, have been at the scene continuously.
An update from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service stated: "The fire at Tintwistle Moor is now contained thanks to the efforts of firefighters and partner agencies, including those from the Peak District Fire Operations Group (FOG)."
Six fire appliances plus specialist vehicles, such as a high volume pump and a helicopter from United Utilities, remain on site to monitor conditions. Firefighters are currently damping down and checking for hot spots. The service expressed gratitude to all involved, including the Rapid Relief Team and The Salvation Army, who have provided food and water for crews.
Public Urged to Avoid Area
Residents have been advised to avoid the affected area and to keep windows and doors closed if they can see or smell smoke. Social media reports indicate smoke has been detected as far away as Middleton, Rochdale, and Oldham as the woodland continues to smoulder.
High Peak MP Jon Pearce issued a statement urging people to stay away and refrain from lighting fires or using disposable barbecues. He praised the efforts of firefighters, rangers, gamekeepers, and emergency workers who have worked around the clock. "This fire has once again shown just how vulnerable our precious moorlands are during periods of hot, dry weather. The Peak District is one of our nation's greatest landscapes, but it is also incredibly fragile. High Peak is the most vulnerable constituency for wildfires in the country. Wildfires put lives at risk, threaten wildlife and habitats, damage our environment, and can have a significant impact on local communities and businesses," Pearce said.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
