Three teenage boys have been arrested in connection with a moorland fire on Holcombe Hill in Bury earlier this week.
Emergency services were called at around 12.30pm on Tuesday 13 May after reports of a fire breaking out on the moorland. Crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) and officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) responded quickly and were able to contain and extinguish the blaze later that day.
Following initial enquiries and witness information, a teenage boy was arrested on Wednesday 14 May and interviewed by police. Two further arrests were made the next day. All three teenagers have been released on bail pending further investigation.
Detective Inspector Andy Wright from GMP’s Bury division said: “The moorland fire is being investigated as arson. We have managed to apprehend three teenagers in relation to this incident. Fires can have a devastating effect, and we are fortunate that this one did not result in serious damage or injury.”
GMFRS station manager Ady Taylor, who is also the service’s national tactical adviser for wildfires, reminded the public of the dangers of open fires: “We want people to enjoy Greater Manchester’s countryside, but they must do so responsibly. That means no barbecues, no fires and no fireworks while on the moors.”
He added: “Wildfires can spread rapidly and destroy landscapes, habitats, and put lives at risk. Anyone who spots a fire should call 999 immediately. If you suspect someone has started a fire deliberately, report it anonymously to FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558 or at firestoppersreport.co.uk.”
The incident has prompted renewed warnings as part of GMFRS’s annual Be Moor Aware campaign, which runs throughout summer. The campaign urges the public to avoid activities that could start wildfires and highlights the legal consequences of arson.
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