Arsonists hunted after moorland fires

In the wake of a series of fires which have destroyed moorland at Dovestone, police have vowed the arsonists “will face justice”.

And speaking at a media briefing yesterday (Tuesday) at the reservoir, GMFRS confirmed on July 11, 12 and 18 - all in the early hours of the morning - fires had been deliberately started at different locations in Greenfield.

The fires on July 11 and 12 involved two different areas of woodland near Dovestone Reservoir and saw piles of felled trees set on fire.

Firefighters spent several hours at each scene, extinguishing the fires and dampening the areas to prevent further breakout.

On July 18, moorland near Chew Reservoir was set on fire and saw firefighters at the scene for almost 24 hours, controlling the fire and making it safe.

Jim Wilmott, from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It's difficult to understand why anyone would want to deliberately start a fire in moorlands, but sadly it does happen and when conditions are this dry, they grow quickly and easily out of control.

"For those who do think this is a good idea, please know that you are destroying precious moorland, putting local wildlife and people at danger, causing huge disruption and preventing crucial emergency services resources from attending other serious incidents.

"This behaviour needs to stop - it's selfish and dangerous.

"We've seen in recent years just how much destruction wildfires can cause and with the extreme heat we're currently experiencing, the consequences could be devastating.

"Please, if you have any information contact the police and help us stop and punish those responsible.

"We're also urging people to please not do anything that could cause a fire accidentally.

"In these conditions, the smallest of flames could cause enormous destruction. 

"Do not leave any litter behind and do not light any kind of BBQs, fires or fireworks on greenspaces or moorland.

"With conditions currently very dry and warm, any unprotected heat source can quickly spread into a major wildfire."

Superintendent Phil Hutchinson, of GMP's Oldham district, said: "In recent days, there have been a number of fires on the moorland behind us here at Dovestones Reservoir.

"Following extensive enquiries by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and officers from GMP Oldham’s CID, it is believed that at least four of these fires have been started deliberately.

"First and foremost, I would like to publicly reassure members of the public and warn offenders that we are following every line of enquiry to identify those responsible and being them to face justice.

"This is being treated as arson which, following conviction, can result in a lengthy prison sentence.

"As well as being criminal, it goes without saying that this behaviour is reckless and could have a devastating impact on the land, the wildlife and local residents – something we have seen before.

"Though extensive enquiries are ongoing in partnership with other agencies, I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to members of the public for information – particularly anyone who has seen anything suspicious or has mobile phone, dash or helmet cam footage which may assist us.

"In the coming days and week, particularly during the heatwave, members of the public who frequent at Dovestones are asked to report anyone they suspect of igniting any kind of flame in the area.

"Saddleworth Moor is currently subject to a Public Space Protection Order and, thus, the ignition of any kind of flame – including but not limited to barbecues – is a criminal offence.

"This includes the disposal of lit cigarettes.

"Breaching the order can result in a one thousand pound fine."

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via: gmp.police.uk or 101.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Information about crime can also be reported anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111.

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