Emergency services are continuing to tackle a large moor fire close after members of the public saw fireworks being set off nearby.
Crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) were alerted to reports of a blaze shortly before 8.45pm on Saturday 11 July close to Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, Greater Manchester.
The fire service has not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, but videos circulating online show groups setting off fireworks on Saturday evening, with one causing a small fire.
Members of the public have been told to avoid the area, and those living nearby have been told to keep all windows and doors closed.
High winds may cause the smoke to travel “significant distances”, the fire service added.
Passersby could see the hillside shrouded in plumes of smoke.
A GMFRS spokesperson said, “At just before 8.45pm last night (Saturday 11 July), fire crews were called to reports of a fire in open moorland near Dovestones Reservoir, Greenfield.
“Firefighters remain in attendance this morning (Sunday 12 July), supported by specialist wildfire resources and partner agencies, as they continue to tackle the incident.
“Overnight, crews monitored the fire from safe locations due to challenging terrain and low light conditions. At first light, firefighters returned to the moorland and have continued work to contain the fire and prevent further spread.
“Specialist wildfire units, off-road vehicles and drone support have been deployed to assist operations, with crews focusing on limiting fire spread across the moorland and ridge areas.
“United Utilities is supporting the multi-agency response and further tactical options, including the potential use of a helicopter for water drops, are being explored.
“Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the day while work continues. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency services and partner agencies to carry out their work safely.”
Members of the public have been told to avoid the area, and those living nearby have been told to keep all windows and doors closed.
In an update on Sunday afternoon, the fire service added that the fire was not currently impacting a nearby memorial tree plantation.
The incident comes just over 24 hours after the death of a teenage boy at Dovestone Reservoir.
Karl Holland, 18, was pronounced dead after getting into difficulties in the water on the evening of Friday 10 July.
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