A devastating moorland wildfire that has shrouded large areas of Greater Manchester in thick smoke and ash has led to a young woman being charged with aggravated arson. Shania Care-Slede, 20, from Hyde, was arrested by Greater Manchester Police on Monday in Oldham in connection with the blaze near Dovestone reservoir in Greenfield.
The charges brought against Ms Care-Slede include aggravated arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and dangerous driving. Eyewitnesses reported fireworks being launched shortly before the significant fire erupted on Saturday evening. While police have confirmed receiving reports of pyrotechnics, it remains unclear if they directly caused the blaze.
The Dovestone moorland fire is just one of three major wildfires affecting Greater Manchester and surrounding areas in recent days. The fires have also led to a widespread blanket of smoke and ash blanketing parts of the city centre, prompting local residents to describe an "orange haze" and strong-smelling fog. The situation has prompted Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to advise those in affected areas to stay indoors where possible and keep windows closed to minimise smoke ingress.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) reports that 19 wildfires are currently active across England and Wales, highlighting the urgent need for public caution. Phil Garrigan, chair of the NFCC, warned that "one spark" can start a fire when vegetation is extremely dry, urging the public to exercise extreme care outdoors and avoid using disposable barbecues in open spaces.
Further north, firefighters are still monitoring a major wildfire at Conwy Mountain in North Wales, which has already impacted over 36 homes. Meanwhile, the Tintwistle Moor fire in Derbyshire – declared a major incident on Sunday – has affected more than 240 hectares of woodland and moorland.
Local authorities have been working tirelessly to combat the blazes, with many residents expressing concerns about the environmental impact and public safety. The investigation into the Dovestone moorland fire continues, with Ms Care-Slede due to appear in court at a later date.