Crews tackle huge fire on moorland near Greater Manchester

Smoke could be seen for miles around after a huge blaze broke out on moorland near to Greater Manchester. Firefighters were called out to Marsden Moor, across the West Yorkshire border from Saddleworth, at around 5pm yesterday (April 8).

Eyewitnesses reported seeing firefighters rushing to the scene on Saturday evening, while plumes of smoke were seen across the valley. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire covered an area of around 500 square metres by 8.30pm, with fire crews in attendance.

Several witnesses watched the blaze from different vantage points, Yorkshire Live reports. The fire came the region basked in sunshine on Saturday, with visitors enjoying the bank holiday weather at Marsden Moor.

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Helen Broadhead, who was present around the time the first broke out around 5pm, told Yorkshire Live that several paragliders had taken to the skies to see the line of fire. Other witnesses reported seeing plumes of smoke from the A62, near the Stanedge area, with some stating seeing the moorland alight.

National Trust rangers first checked the scene with firefighters at 5.20pm. A spokesperson for the National Trust added: "The fire appears to have broken out close to Eastergate on Marsden Moor around 5pm."

The fire service is yet to confirm if the incident has been stood down. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has been approached for comment.

Ahead of the Easter bank holiday, the National Trust had warned visitors to take care on Marsden Moor. A spokesperson wrote on Twitter: "Enjoy the long weekend, but please help us look after the moors this bank holiday.

"Remember, BBQs are banned on Marsden