Further helicopter support for ongoing moorland fire battles

A second helicopter will head to Saddleworth moor this morning

United Utilities is providing a second helicopter to support Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s (GMFRS) efforts fighting the wildfires on Saddleworth Moor.

Yesterday afternoon the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, visited the scene of the fires which have hit communities near Stalybridge particularly hard for nine consecutive days.

There he met with firefighters and officers.

On hearing about the significant impact aerial support had already made to fighting the fire, the Mayor immediately contacted United Utilities, who have been in dialogue with GMFRS across the past week and had already generously provided one helicopter, to explore the possibility of a second.

Within hours the company responded positively and a formal request was submitted.

The new aerial support will be in the air above the moors this morning (Wednesday) and both helicopters will be placed under the control of the emergency services.

Steve Fraser, Chief Operating Officer at United Utilities, said: “Our team appreciated the Mayor’s visit which was a boost during what is proving to be a very gruelling and strenuous incident.

"I’m pleased that we have now been able to source an additional helicopter as part of our continuing support for the firefighting effort.”

At the moorland fire in Tameside crews and specialist officers continue to work across five areas of fire. 

GMFRS Area Manager, Jim Hutton, said: “I can’t thank our neighbouring fire and rescue services, partners and the community enough for their support over the past week.

“Whilst you are enjoying the World Cup this evening, please think of our crews who are continuing to tackle two major moorland fires.

"With this in mind, please don’t make their job any harder by leaving barbecues unattended or cooking whilst drinking alcohol.

“I would also urge people to take care around water – it may be tempting to cool off in a reservoir or lake but the even the strongest of swimmers can get into difficulties and there can be unknown hazards underwater.”