FIREFIGHTERS tackled a huge moorland wildfire last night, Saturday, - the second in two days.
The blaze broke out close to Binn Green near Dovestones Reservoir at Greenfield and was spread widely by strong winds.
The area that the fire covered measured around 300m by 100m and the fire service called upon advanced resources such as an air unit to bring it under control.
Police shut Holmfirth Road (A635), turning back traffic above the entrance to Dovestones, as firefighters battled the flames.
The fire was put out at around 10pm.
Last night, a Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) spokesman said:”This evening (Saturday) firefighters from across Greater Manchester battled a moorland wildfire in the Greenfield area of Oldham, near Dovestones Reservoir.
"The fire was approximately 300m x 100m.
"GMFRS deployed the air unit to survey the scene and used specialist off road vehicles to support their efforts.
"The fire has now been extinguished.”
The fire near Binn Green close to Dovestone Reservoir on Saturday (Picture: Paul Milner)
The fire near Binn Green close to Dovestone Reservoir on Saturday (Picture: Paul Milner)
The moorland fire on Saturday (Picture: Louise Banawich)
Sad to report yet more fire damage at Dove Stone this time an area of woodland planted by local volunteers. Thanks to our Fire Ranger for calling it in & Fire & Rescue for putting it out. We will work with volunteers to replant this area over the coming weeks @unitedutilities pic.twitter.com/NcqPNXuerm
— RSPB Dove Stone (@RSPBDoveStone) March 20, 2022
On Friday evening, at adjoining Marsden Moor, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service sent 10 appliances and specialist equipment to confront a fire near Pule Hill.
There were concerns that the 400m flame front would reach roadside properties and people were asked to avoid Marsden Moor.
But firefighters used specialist equipment to keep the blaze at bay.
Just before 8pm, the fire service said the incident had been closed and all its resources had now left Marsden Moor
National Trust rangers were also at the scene.
The fire at Marsden Moor
Plumes of smoke over Marsden Moor on Friday (Picture: Phil Spencer)
Landscapes officer for the trust, Tia Crouch, warned people not to take barbecues on to the moors.
She said: “We’re grateful for to the crews from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for their quick response.
“At the moment, Marsden Moor is very vulnerable to moorland fires. With more warm weather forecast over the coming week, we’d like to remind the public never to take a barbecue onto the moors.
“If anyone sees a barbecue or a fire on the moor, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.”
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