Huge emergency service presence called after wild fire breaks out near Cat and Fiddle pub
Huge plumes of smoke have been seen coming from the Peaks.
A large emergency service response has been called to the Peak District today (April 30) after a wild fire started near the Cat and Fiddle at around 10am.
Forest Distillery, the current tenants of the iconic venue, are open for business as of 2pm but could be forced to close at any moment.
Melanie Selstrom, the distillery's marketing manager, said: "It started with a relatively small fire but its getting bigger and increasingly closer, so we are just trying to make a decision on what is the best thing to do for staff and visitors.
"There's been about eight fire trucks in attendance, along with helicopters.
"They're tackling it at the moment and we are just keeping a close eye on it and hoping it doesn't come any nearer.
"We're playing it minute by minute.
"I don't think the fire will reach us but it's just the ash and smoke are blowing over."
Melanie added: "Karl Bond, the owner, was saying he hadn't seen anything like this since they took over the property in 2019.
"There's wild fires all the time but we've not seen it on our doorstep before."
A spokesperson for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service said: "Emergency services are currently dealing with a large wildfire near Errwood Reservoir in the Goyt Valley.
"10 fire engines from Derbyshire and Cheshire are in attendance supported by a water carrier and a Unimog.
"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."
*UPDATE*
At 3.20pm, Forest Distillery confirmed that they have now closed the Cat and Fiddle, with the fire getting nearer.
Emergency services have now relocated and are based at the pub.
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