Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton divisions are warning members of the public of the danger of moorland fires.
Sergeant Zach Keneally of GMP’s Bolton North division sent out a message reminding members of the public of a legal Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) restricting activity on the moorland – with those breaching the order liable for a fine of £1,000.
Originally coming into force on August 21, 2023, the order is designed to reduce the risk of wildfire on moors in Darwen, Bolton and Chorley.
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As well as lighting barbeques or campfires, activities such as using camping stoves, lighting fireworks, and setting off night-sky paper lanterns are also banned.
In 2018, a wildfire raged for more than a month on Winter Hill, ravaging an area of more than seven square miles, or 18 square kilometres – around 2,500 football pitches.
At the time of the wildfires, an investigation was launched led by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and Lancashire Police and two men in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of arson.
They were released under investigation but it is understood there was no action taken against them due to a lack of evidence.
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Sergeant Keneally said: “Moorland fires are difficult to control.
“At the time of the Winter Hill fires in this same area in 2018, over 100 firefighters and more than 20 fire engines were tackling the blaze, supported by soldiers, volunteers from local mountain rescue teams and a helicopter from United Utilities.
“Officers will patrol at-risk areas during hot and busy days, reminding people of their responsibilities.
“Breaching the PSPO is a criminal offence and could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
“If you see anyone lighting fires within the area, please ring 101 as a matter of urgency, use live chat on our website or ring 999 in an emergency.”
If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.
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