Dovestone Blaze: People as far away as Manchester told to keep windows shut
The smell of burning has reached Manchester city centre, more than 24 hours after the fire broke out
Last updated 1 hour ago
Firefighters are working through a second night on the moors above Dovestone Reservoir, as smoke from the blaze spreads across large parts of Greater Manchester.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service says strong winds are carrying the smoke long distances, and people have reported haze and the smell of burning as far away as Manchester city centre.
Anyone affected has been advised to keep their windows and doors closed where possible.
How the fire started
Crews were called to open moorland near Dovestones Reservoir in Greenfield just before 8.45pm on Saturday 11th July.
Five fire engines from Mossley, Stalybridge, Hyde, Bolton North and Littleborough were sent, backed up by specialist wildfire units, and firefighters used beaters and backpack water units to attack the flames.
It comes just days after an 18-year-old man died after getting into difficulty in the water there.
The fire service says the cause has not yet been identified, and an investigation began on Sunday.
Major response
The response has grown through Sunday, with more fire engines, wildfire units, burns teams, command support and drones brought in.
GMFRS says crews are working across several sectors of the moor to tackle active fire fronts and cut fire breaks, in an effort to stop the flames reaching surrounding moorland and woodland.
United Utilities is on scene supporting the operation, with the fire service saying a range of tactical options is being considered because of the difficult terrain.
Firefighters will stay on the moor overnight, and the public is being asked to stay away from the area so emergency crews can work safely.
Pictures from the area show smoke from both the currently blaze and recent fires at Tintwistle.
Warning over fireworks and barbecues
The fire service is repeating its plea for people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland.
A GMFRS spokesperson said the ground is tinder dry, warning: "even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire."
The fire came just over 24 hours after the death of an 18-year-old man at Dovestone Reservoir on the evening of Friday 10th July.
Greater Manchester Police said detectives are carrying out extensive enquiries into the circumstances.