Moorland Fire in Goyt Valley: 50 Firefighters Battle Blaze
A large-scale moorland fire has broken out near Buxton, with dozens of firefighters working to contain the blaze. The fire, which started near Errwood reservoir in the Upper Goyt Valley, has prompted a major emergency response, with surrounding roads closed and residents advised to keep doors and windows closed.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire began late on Wednesday morning, with a large plume of smoke visible from the Cat and Fiddle Road. Pictures shared on social media show the extent of the blaze, with flames engulfing the moorland. The Manchester Evening News reports that around 50 firefighters are currently on the scene, with ten fire engines from Derbyshire and Cheshire in attendance, supported by a water carrier and a Unimog.
In a statement, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Emergency services are currently dealing with a large wildfire near Errwood Reservoir in the Goyt Valley. We are receiving a high number of calls regarding a smoke plume which can be seen in the area. A road closure is currently in place from the Errwood Hall car park. Please avoid the area. Residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed if affected by the smoke."
The fire is believed to be one of the largest in the area in recent years, with a Peak District Moorland Group spokesperson warning that the blaze has the potential to cause significant damage. "Multiple shooting estates and partners are attending with numerous FRS personnel," the spokesperson said. "The area is under a United Utilities management regime and has had extensive interventions over the last 20 years. With multiple nests of all ground nesting birds being burnt out and the fire heading towards commercial forestry, it’s the worst this area has seen since the 2018 fires when 40 hectares burnt on Ravenslow, one of the most prized blanket bog areas in this location."
Glossop police have also issued a statement, urging people to avoid the area. "Emergency services are currently at the scene of a large moorland fire near to Errwood Reservoir in the Goyt Valley," the statement read. "A road closure is currently in place from the Errwood Hall car park and people are being urged to avoid the area."
The cause of the fire is not yet known, but emergency services are working to bring the blaze under control. In the meantime, residents and visitors to the area are advised to exercise caution and follow the instructions of emergency services.
The Manchester Evening News will provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
The fire service is urging people to stay away from the area, and residents to keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering their homes.
For those who may have been affected by the fire or have concerns, further information and advice can be found on the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service website.
Residents can also contact the Manchester Evening News for any queries or concerns they may have.
