Saddleworth Moor Blaze Near Dove Stone Reservoir Requires Multi-Agency Response

A large moorland fire near Dove Stone Reservoir on Saddleworth Moor is expected to demand several more days of sustained effort from firefighting crews. The blaze, which ignited on Saturday, has necessitated a comprehensive response involving multiple agencies working to contain its spread across the challenging terrain.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed their commitment to the site, with firefighters remaining on duty throughout the night. GMFRS Group Manager, Phil Starbuck, stated that crews were deployed across various sectors of the moor, implementing fire breaks to manage the fire's progression.

The incident has also seen contributions from United Utilities, the RSPB, and Greater Manchester Police (GMP). Police have launched an investigation into the cause, with initial assessments suggesting arson. Detective Sergeant Phil Sutcliffe of GMP’s Oldham district has appealed to the public for information, urging anyone who observed suspicious activity in the vicinity of Dove Stone Reservoir on Saturday afternoon to come forward.

GMFRS has issued a public safety message, reminding residents and visitors that barbecues are prohibited on moorland and advising extreme caution with discarded cigarettes or any other potential ignition sources. The dry conditions prevalent across the region heighten the risk of such fires, posing a significant threat to wildlife and the local environment.