A giant wall of flame engulfed more than a mile of precious moorland and spread fear through village communities last night.

More than ten teams of firefighters tackled the mammoth blaze with flames leaping feet into the air and a vanguard of fire sweeping hillsides above Marsden Moor on the Yorkshire-Saddleworth border.

Epicentre of the fire, which began just after 7pm Sunday night was valuable National  Trust land near Black Moss Reservoir and Swellands Reservoir.

The area is known for its breeding bird habitat and is a popular site for rare curlews. It is also home to short-eared owl and mountain hares.

It follows several weeks of dry weather, which have made the moors vulnerable to fire.

Flames and clouds of acrid smoke could be seen across Saddleworth and at one point flames carved a path near to several hillside homes.

West Yorkshire fire brigade had 10 fire engines and specialist wildfire units at the scene working in partnership with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and the National Trust. 

The  main A62 Oldham to Huddersfield Road was wreathed in smoke and local  residents were  advised to keep doors and windows closed. Drivers were alsi asked to avoid travelling through the area.

It is nearly two years to the day since another a 2019, which destroyed 700 hectares of land. Then, it took a helicopter four days to fully extinguish the flames, which had been caused by a discarded disposable barbeque. 

The full restoration effort from that fire is expected to take several years and cost at least £500,000.

Countryside Manager for the National Trust, Craig Best, said: “It’s so frustrating to see yet another fire on our moors after all the hard work our team have put in to try and restore the landscape after last time.

“Although not on the same area of land as the 2019 fire, this fire has also destroyed a crucial area for rare birds and mammals, as well as carbon-capturing blanket bog.

“We’re so grateful to West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for their efforts. Unfortunately, this was another fire started by people, and could have so easily been avoided.”

He added: “Climate change is causing more frequent and intense spells of hot, dry weather, which turns these upland areas into tinder boxes. 

“That’s why our team are working hard to re-wet these moorlands and to educate people on the dangers of fires, fireworks and BBQs on open moors.”

The ban on BBQs and fires on Marsden Moor runs all year round and is part of a PSPO. (Public Spaces Protection Order).