Olic have issued a warning of the coming heat wave after a series of bushfires on moors near Manchester which they now believe were started on purpose.
The fire started last weekend and spread over part of Saddleworth Moor near a parking lot near the Dovestone reservoir.
Greater Manchester Police Department (GMP) say a joint study with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has so far determined that five fires with traces of accelerator have been found on three of the seats.
Chief Inspector Phillip Hutchinson, of the GMP Oldham district, said: “Investigations are underway to identify those responsible for starting these fires, which could have had a devastating impact on land, wildlife and the residents living in the area.
“I ask anyone who has information to share it with us as soon as possible.
“Maintaining safety at Saddleworth Moor is paramount to both ourselves and our partner agencies.
“Just days before this fire, we attended an event where we spoke to the public about the use of the area in the summer.
“Unfortunately, during this event, our agents saw individuals posing a risk, so three fixed fines were issued.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that there is a public space protection order in force in Saddleworth Moor – meaning it is a criminal offense to start fires in the area, including barbecues . A violation of the warrant can result in a fine of £1,000.
“I ask the public visiting the area and residents living around it to report anyone they suspect of planning and illegally barbecuing or committing any other crime.”
Jim Wilmott, GMFRS group manager at Bury, Oldham and Rochdale, said: “We’ve seen recently how devastating and damaging bushfires can be, especially in Saddleworth.
“It’s hard to see why anyone would want to deliberately start a fire in moorland, but unfortunately it happens and when conditions are this dry they quickly and easily grow out of control.
“For those who think this is a good idea, you should know that not only is it destroying precious moorland, but it also endangers local wildlife and people, causing massive disruption and our resources are often unable to to attend other serious incidents. .
“Evidence suggests that there was a deliberate fire at Dove Stone in Saddleworth. I urge people to contact the Greater Manchester Police Department with any information you have about this so that those responsible can be rightly punished. Our message is strong and clear: never set up a barbecue or campfire in the countryside and never deliberately light a fire. It’s selfish and dangerous.”
“Anyone with information should contact us through our LiveChat facility or by calling 101.”
Information may also be shared anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.