Clouds of smoke from moorland fire sweep into Saddleworth villages

Images courtesy of Gregg Barratt

Worried Saddleworth villages expressed concern after billowing clouds of acrid smoke, carried by high winds, swept into communities last night (Saturday).

They came from a large moorland wildfire a few miles away at Acres Lane, Holmfirth.

Slaithwaite firefighters, alongside six other crews, supporting wildfire appliances and officers were tackling the blaze.

A West Yorkshire Fire Brigade spokesman said: ”Due to darkness, crews were withdrawn from the moor shortly after and minimal crews remained overnight with a watching brief to ensure no property or life was at risk.

“This morning, crews returned in the very early hours to start attacking the fire.

"Weather conditions are now helping massively as it is cold, damp and foggy.

"Crews are using wildfire blowers, beaters, water backpacks and our specialist wildfire Argocat vehicle to deal with hotspots and flare-ups.

"Please avoid the area where possible as we have a lot of vehicles and personnel working, thank you.”

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