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Moorland Inferno: 1,250 Pitches Lost
18 Jul
Summary
- Hundreds of hectares of moorland, equal to 1,250 football pitches, have burned.
- Over 100 firefighters are battling the merged blazes on two fronts.
- Authorities warn visitors to stay away and not light barbecues.
Extensive wildfires have consumed approximately 885 hectares of moorland in Greater Manchester and Derbyshire, an area comparable to 1,250 football pitches. The fires, which broke out on July 11, merged at Dove Stone, impacting Saddleworth and Tintwistle, and also affected Swineshaw.
More than 100 firefighters and volunteers are engaged in a strenuous, round-the-clock effort to contain the blazes. Landowner United Utilities is collaborating with emergency services, deploying specialist teams and equipment like helicopters and all-terrain vehicles. Authorities have strongly urged the public to avoid the affected moorland areas and to not light barbecues or campfires.
In connection with the fires, a 20-year-old woman has been charged with aggravated arson and dangerous driving, with a court appearance scheduled for August 18. Two other individuals arrested on suspicion of arson have been released on bail.
