Dovestone wildfire enters fourth day as crews issue update

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said crews are continuing to tackle the blaze near Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, with 15 fire engines and four specialist wildfire units deployed in challenging conditions.

The latest update, issued at 7pm this evening (July 14), comes as smoke from the fire continues to affect parts of Greater Manchester.

Fire chiefs said a separate wildfire at nearby Tintwistle Moor is also contributing to a large plume of smoke across the region.

A GMFRS spokesperson said: “For the fourth consecutive day, crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are tackling the moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir.

“More than 70 firefighters, 15 fire engines and four specialist wildfire units from across Greater Manchester are at the scene.

“Our crews are working hard in challenging conditions to contain the fire.”

Residents in affected areas are being urged to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed if there is visible smoke.

Visible smoke has been seen across large parts of Greater Manchester (Image: Grahams Fire Page)

The spokesperson added: “People in the surrounding area may continue to experience smoke from the wildfire, with a separate wildfire at nearby Tintwistle Moor contributing to a large plume of smoke that has affected parts of Greater Manchester today.

“If there is visible smoke, stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed where necessary.”

Road closures remain in place around Dovestone Reservoir, and members of the public are being urged not to travel to the area while emergency services and partner agencies continue their work.

The fire first broke out shortly before 8.40pm on Saturday evening.

Since then, firefighters have been working around the clock to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading across the moorland.

A major incident was declared on Sunday as the response intensified.

Specialist wildfire units, drone technology, burns teams, command support vehicles and partner agencies have all been involved in tackling the fire in difficult terrain.

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police have charged a woman in connection with the wildfire.

Shania Care-Slede, 20, of Market Street, Hyde, has been charged with aggravated arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered, and dangerous driving.

She was due to appear at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on today (July 14).

Police said their investigation remains ongoing and officers are continuing to pursue a number of lines of enquiry to identify any other individuals who may have been involved.

Earlier today, GMFRS said the wildfire remained active but was in a steady state, with crews continuing to extinguish hotspots and monitor conditions as weather and wind direction change.

(Image: Newsquest)

The fire service also thanked local communities for their support but said firefighters have all the equipment and supplies they need.

A spokesperson said: “We are incredibly grateful for the kindness and support local communities have shown to firefighters and partners responding to the fire.

“However, crews have all the equipment, supplies and welfare arrangements they need to carry out their work safely.

“While we are not seeking donations, we’re thankful for the positive messages and support being shown by local people, and would encourage anyone wishing to make a donation to consider supporting a local food bank instead.”