Vast swathes of precious moorland in Greater Manchester and Derbyshire have been devastated by ongoing wildfires, with landowner United Utilities confirming that 885 hectares, an area comparable to 1,250 football pitches, have been burned. Firefighters are continuing their relentless efforts to bring the blazes under control, warning members of the public to steer clear of the affected regions.
The current operation involves more than 100 firefighters and volunteers, who are battling the inferno on two main fronts. A significant fire at Saddleworth has merged with a pre-existing blaze at Tintwistle, while another major incident is unfolding at Swineshaw. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has issued stern warnings, stating that "people must stay away from affected moorland areas and must not light BBQs, campfires or any other open flames." This comes after reports of visitors lighting barbecues in the vicinity over the past weekend.
United Utilities, which owns the land, is working in close collaboration with GMFRS, Greater Manchester Police, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue, the RSPB, and Mountain Rescue. Their collective efforts to extinguish the fires at Dovestone and Tintwistle include the deployment of specialist teams and equipment, such as helicopters and all-terrain vehicles, designed to navigate the challenging terrain.
Chief Fire Officer Dave Russel described the scale of the wildfire as "vast" on Friday, highlighting the "physically demanding and incredibly challenging environment" faced by firefighters. He commended their professionalism, noting that crews have been working tirelessly around the clock since the fire at Dove Stone Reservoir first broke out on 11 July.
In connection with the incidents, Shania Care-Slede, 20, from Hyde, has been charged with aggravated arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and dangerous driving. She is scheduled to appear in court on 18 August. Additionally, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a man in his 20s and a 19-year-old woman, who were arrested on suspicion of arson last week, have since been released on bail.