Crews at Dovestone are now using an ‘offensive firefighting operation’ as smoke continues to billow for miles from the moorland blaze
The fire service has issued an update on a huge moorland blaze near Dovestone Reservoir after a local councillor said videos shared online of youths letting off fireworks were being reviewed.
The blaze broke out on the moorland in Greenfield, Oldham, just before 8.40pm on Saturday night (July 11). Residents reported hearing ‘loud bangs’ prior to the fire taking hold.
Videos of youths setting off fireworks on the moorland just before the fire started have also been shared widely on social media. The huge plumes of smoke billowed for miles across Greater Manchester over the weekend as crews worked to tackle the blaze.
Follow live updates on the Dovestone fire HERE
In an update issued this morning (Monday), Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said crews had now moved into an ‘offensive firefighting operation’ to tackle the blaze. The service described the terrain as ‘challenging’ with more crews sent to the scene to help on Sunday.
In full, the update said: “Firefighters remain at the scene of a moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield after crews were called shortly before 8.40pm on Saturday evening following reports of a grass fire. Fire engines from across Greater Manchester, alongside specialist wildfire officers, a Burns Team and supervisory officers, attended the incident.
“Following a scene assessment, additional firefighters were requested to assist crews working in challenging terrain. Throughout Sunday and overnight, firefighters continued working to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading across the moorland, with relief crews rotating through the incident to maintain firefighting operations.
“A water supply has now been established and firefighters have moved into an offensive firefighting operation using hose lines to tackle the fire. Additional command officers and specialist wildfire personnel have also been mobilised to support the response. Crews remain at the scene this morning continuing to extinguish hotspots, contain the fire and monitor the area.”
On Sunday evening, as videos of fireworks being let off on the moorland at Dovestone continued to be shared on social media, Cllr Keiron Lawrence, the Reform UK councillor for Ashton Hurst, shared a statement. He said the ‘reckless’ videos were being reviewed with ‘some of those responsible identified’.
He said in a post: “I have been in contact with residents throughout the day regarding the fires that appear to have been started through completely irresponsible behaviour. I won’t hold back. Those responsible, some I can confirm have been identified, should face the full consequences available, whilst including substantial fines where appropriate.
“I understand this group had gathered to pay their respects to their friend who tragically lost his life at Dovestones Reservoir. I genuinely do not believe anyone set out intending to start a wildfire. However, intent does not remove responsibility.
“The lack of common sense, disregard for the environment, and apparent lack of respect for our beautiful countryside is simply unacceptable. A single reckless act can have devastating consequences for wildlife, the landscape, nearby communities, and the emergency services who have to put themselves at risk to deal with it.
“Our firefighters and all emergency service personnel have worked tirelessly in extremely difficult conditions to contain the blaze. Every one of them deserves our gratitude and respect. Like many others, I have seen videos circulating on social media, including footage that has been sent directly to me by residents from across Tameside. My understanding is that this material is being reviewed by the relevant authorities.
“I genuinely struggle to comprehend how anyone could behave with such a staggering lack of judgement, especially given the dry conditions and the well-publicised fire risk. Actions have consequences, and those responsible should be held accountable.”
The incident came barely 24 hours after the tragic death of a teenage boy at Dovestone Reservoir. Karl Holland, 18, was pronounced dead after getting into difficulties at the beauty spot in Saddleworth, on Friday night (July 10). Tributes have since been paid to a ‘kindhearted, beautiful boy’.
Police have confirmed they are carrying out enquiries into the fire at Dovestone. A spokesperson for the force said: “We have received a report, and officers are following lines of enquiry.”
