Three farms saved from wildfire

Photo: Robyn Buckley

Three farms saved from wildfire in Littleborough

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Firefighters from Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire were faced with challenging conditions on Saturday night as they tackled a fire on moorland above Littleborough.

Crews from Littleborough and Rochdale were joined by colleagues from Mytholmroyd in West Yorkshire at 8.36pm to a wild fire in the Blackstone Edge area that was spreading quickly towards three farms.

Two specialist wildfire units from Greater Manchester also attended as firefighters used forced air firefighting units (FAFU) to bring the fire under control.

Crews used the units, similar to high powered leaf blowers, to protect the farms from the blaze, stopping the flames 50m from one farm.

SM Alan Ashworth said: “We have dealt with a few incidents in this area now. Wildfires can be devastating to the environment and if people are heading out on to the moors please take extra care.

“Make sure you put out any cigarettes and don’t light any fires. It’s also important to remember to take all your rubbish with you.

“It can take a long time for moorlands to recover from a fire and it can have a huge impact on habitats and wildlife.

“Report any fires by calling 999.”