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Dovestone moor fire sends smoke across Saddleworth as firefighters battle blaze

Sunday, 12 July 2026 01:16

By David Murphy

Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio / Alamy Live News

Firefighters remain at the scene of a moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir after large plumes of smoke were seen rising above Saddleworth on Saturday evening.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service was called just before 8.45pm to reports of a fire on open moorland near the popular beauty spot. Five fire engines from Mossley, Stalybridge, Hyde, Bolton North and Littleborough attended, supported by specialist wildfire units and officers.

Crews located a grass fire and used grass beaters and backpack water units to tackle the blaze while working to stop it spreading across the moor.

Residents from across Saddleworth and neighbouring parts of Rochdale reported seeing smoke drifting across the skyline. Some people also said they heard loud bangs before the fire became visible, although there is no confirmation that the sounds were connected to the incident.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has urged residents and visitors in the area to keep doors and windows closed while smoke remains in the area.

The cause of the fire has not been confirmed and firefighters remained at the scene late into the evening.

Anyone travelling near Dovestone Reservoir is advised to avoid the area while emergency services continue their work.

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