Youths have been condemned after setting off fireworks on the parched moors surrounding Dovestone Reservoir, moments before a massive wildfire erupted on the night of July 11. The Manchester Evening News obtained multiple video clips and images posted to social media showing a young woman holding a rocket launcher as a firework explodes onto the dry grasses above the reservoir in Greenfield, near Saddleworth, Oldham.
Fireworks Spark Blaze on Tinder-Dry Moorland
In one clip, a firework appears to ignite a blaze in dry vegetation, with bystanders rushing to the smoking area. Another video recorded shortly after shows flames rapidly spreading across a hillside at the popular beauty spot. The gatherings were reportedly held in tribute to Karl Holland, an 18-year-old who tragically died after getting into difficulties in the reservoir on June 10. His body was recovered later that night.
Locals have slammed the use of fireworks so close to moorland as utterly reckless and dangerous. One resident said: "I'm truly sorry for the family mourning their loss, but these idiots need to be prosecuted. What sort of absolute idiot sets off fireworks on a tinder-dry moor in a heatwave?" Another social media post claimed that firefighters who attended the reservoir after Karl's death were the same crews called back to fight the wildfire, which continued to rage on Sunday, July 12.
Social Media Outcry Over Reckless Tribute
"Setting fireworks off on a moor that is very dry from the heat is not a beautiful way to pay respect. It's extremely dangerous," another post stated. Multiple fireworks were let off, with youths seen running as fires ignited on the ground. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) stressed on Sunday that no specific cause had been identified, and an investigation was set to begin. A spokesperson confirmed: "GMFRS continues to urge people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland. In the current dry conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire."
Fire Crews Battle Blaze Amid Challenging Conditions
Fire crews rushed to the scene after reports of a moorland blaze around the reservoir at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Saturday night. Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area, and nearby residents have been told to keep windows and doors closed. Dramatic images captured by the Manchester Evening News show a helicopter dropping gallons of water onto the burning moorland. A fire service spokesperson said on Sunday: "Firefighters remain in attendance, supported by specialist wildfire resources and partner agencies, as they continue to tackle the incident. Overnight, crews monitored the fire from safe locations due to challenging terrain and low light conditions. At first light, firefighters returned to the moorland and have continued work to contain the fire and prevent further spread."
Specialist wildfire units, off-road vehicles, and drone support have been deployed to assist operations, with crews focusing on limiting fire spread across the moorland and ridge areas. United Utilities is supporting the multi-agency response. Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the day while work continues. Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment.
Wildfire Risk Escalates Across UK
The Natural Hazards Partnership, a group of government departments and researchers providing scientific advice for natural disasters, has issued a red alert for extreme wildfire risk in southern England, the Midlands, and parts of the north. The Forestry Commission has also warned that low humidity and strong gusting winds expected on Sunday increase the chances of fires starting and spreading rapidly. Between January 1 and July 6 this year, 342 wildfires have been recorded across the UK.
