Firefighters tackled a moorland blaze in Bolton started by people lighting a barbecue.

Now fire officers are urging people to act responsibly when visiting local beauty spots as temperatures are set to soar.

Fire crews were called close to Wilton Quarry on Monday.

The fire was caused by a disposable barbecue on a grass area.

Crews used two hose reels to put out the blaze.

The fire broke out on the same day as a larger fire near Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham, which required 10 different crews to bring it under control, including firefighters from Bolton.

Temperatures are set to soar this weekend, with many people expected to be out and about.

Water Manager for GMFRS, Station Manager Alex Sugden said: “Every year, fires destroy countryside and wildlife across Greater Manchester, and they are often caused by carelessness.

“We urge people enjoying the countryside to please never bring a barbecue.

“Fires on moorland can be incredibly dangerous, causing huge disruption to local communities, and taking up the time of our fire crews who may be needed for other serious incidents.”

The Bolton News: A helicopter attempting to extinguish the blaze at the 2018 Winter Hill fireA helicopter attempting to extinguish the blaze at the 2018 Winter Hill fire

There have been several grass fires across the country caused by barbecues abandoned in rural areas after use, with people flocking outdoors to enjoy the sun.

Bolton was hit by a large wildfire in 2018 at Winter Hill.

More than 100 fire fighters from across the country were scrambled to help tackle the blaze, and they officially stood down after 41 days of tackling the inferno.

The fire service has also issued a reminder about the dangers of jumping into or swimming in open water as part of its annual water safety campaign. The campaign shares heart-breaking stories of family members and friends who have lost loved ones in accidental drownings, to help prevent similar incidents from happening.

Firefighters in Greater Manchester have been called to 41 fatal water incidents in the last five years, and  a number of those were young people who got into difficulty after jumping or swimming in open water on hot days across Greater Manchester.

Area Manager and Head of Prevention at GMFRS, Billy Fenwick, said:“Unfortunately we see tragic incidents of accidental drownings when the weather is warmer, as people attempt to cool off in open water.

“We are urging people to never be tempted to jump into any open water or swim in open water where it is not an organised event – it may be warm outside, but the water is not. Cold Water Shock can kill even strong swimmers and there is also the risk of dangers lurking beneath the surface which may cause drowning.”

The Bolton News:

Banners have been put up in locations of accidental drownings, paying tribute to those who’ve died and reminding people to not enter the water. GMFRS officers have also been visiting schools to talk to young people about staying safe around water.