Images appear to show people setting off fireworks on tinder-dry moors by Dovestone Reservoir, Saddleworth in Oldham before huge wildfires broke out amid scorching temperatures
A crowd has been slammed for appearing to set off fireworks on tinder-dry moors around a reservoir before a huge wildfire blaze broke out.
Incidents of wildfires have broken out up and down the country in recent days and the Met Office has said the scorching heatwave conditions are due to continue this week, with most areas expected to stay dry, sunny and very hot.
And in shocking images, people appear to be seen with fireworks by Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, near Saddleworth in Oldham, where there have now been wildfires on the moors.
A young woman can be seen holding a rocket launcher as a firework explodes out from it on the moors, and another firework then appears to spark a blaze in dry grasses, before a group of bystanders runs over to the smoking section of moorland.
Further images later show flames quickly spreading across a hillside at the Saddleworth beauty spot.
It is understood that youngsters had gathered in tribute to a teenager who tragically died in the reservoir on Friday night. Karl Holland, 18, lost his life after getting into difficulties in the water, with his body sadly recovered later.
But as emergency crews desperately battle to bring the flames under control, the use of fireworks so close to moorland has been condemned by locals.
One person said: “I’m truly sorry for the family mourning their loss, but these idiots need to be prosecuted. What sort of absolute idiot sets off fireworks on a tinder-dry moor in a heatwave?”
Another post on social media claimed the firefighters who attended the reservoir in the aftermath of Karl’s death were the same crews called back up to the moors to fight the wildfire, which was continuing to rage on Sunday (July 12).
“Setting fireworks off on a moor that is very dry from the heat is not a beautiful way to pay respect,” said another post. “It’s extremely dangerous.”
Social media posts show multiple fireworks being let off, with youths pictured running as fires start on the ground. Fire crews raced to the scene after reports of a moorland blaze around the reservoir at around 8.45pm on Saturday night.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service stressed today that no specific cause has been identified as yet with an investigation underway. The fire service said: “GMFRS continues to urge people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland. In the current dry conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire.”
Members of the public have again been told to avoid the area, and those living nearby have been told to keep all windows and doors closed.
A witness told the Manchester Evening News that a number of people set off fireworks and the smouldering remains of a box of fireworks could be seen left dumped on a footpath. They said: “We tried pouring what water we had on bushes, but there wasn’t enough, and fire marshals came past us with bottles of water. However, despite already causing an initial fire, these people continued to set off fireworks and set fire to items they had.”
A helicopter could be seen dropping gallons of water onto the burning moorland from above and a fire service spokesperson said on Sunday: “Firefighters remain in attendance, supported by specialist wildfire resources and partner agencies, as they continue to tackle the incident.
“Overnight, crews monitored the fire from safe locations due to challenging terrain and low light conditions. At first light, firefighters returned to the moorland and have continued work to contain the fire and prevent further spread.
“Specialist wildfire units, off-road vehicles and drone support have been deployed to assist operations, with crews focusing on limiting fire spread across the moorland and ridge areas.
“United Utilities is supporting the multi-agency response. Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the day while work continues. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency services and partner agencies to carry out their work safely.”