Public urged to enjoy outdoors 'responsibly’ following major wildfire in the Goyt Valley
The public are being reminded enjoy the outdoors 'responsibly' following a huge fire in the Goyt Valley.
Firefighters from Cheshire and Derbyshire have been working hard over the past 24 hours to tackle a moorland fire near Errwoor Reservoir.
It has been monumental effort, with support provided by Peak District National Park range, Derby Mountain Rescue Team, local farmers and gamekeepers.
Meanwhile, United Utilities have provided tankers and a helicopter to help minimise the damage.
Speaking at 5pm on Thursday (May 1), Lindsay Page, the water company's county business leader for Manchester, said: "Catchment controllers and a catchment manager from United Utilities continue to support colleagues from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and Derby Mountain Rescue teams following ongoing wildfire in the Goyt Valley near Buxton, Derbyshire.
"To contain the fire and prioritise public and environmental safety, we have provided a helicopter with the means to transport water from our local reservoirs to help extinguish the flames and minimise damage.
"We have also supplied three of our water tankers to help keep water flowing to fire engines, and experts from our catchment teams are doing all they can to minimise the environmental impact to both the peatlands, and the wildlife that call it home."
She added: "This is a timely reminder to those enjoying the outdoors during dry weather to please do so responsibly.
"Do not be tempted to use disposable BBQs or have open flames on camp sites, and please take all rubbish home with you.
"You can also check the council website for any public space protection orders, which prohibit certain activities (such as portable BBQs or off-road biking) in key locations across the North West.
"By working together, we can dramatically reduce the risk of wildfire and environmental devastation, protecting our communities and eco-system simultaneously."
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service provided an update shortly before 4pm.
A spokesperson said: "Working with partners to bring the incident to the most effective and efficient conclusion, the fire is now surrounded.
"Crews are continuing to work on deep seated hotspots of fire in the tree plantation and are damping down smouldering areas of the moorland."
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