A woman has denied charges of arson and aggravated arson over the wildfire at Dove Stone Reservoir.

Shania Care-Slede, 20, of Market Street in Hyde, appeared via video link at Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court on Friday, August 21. She pleaded guilty to one count of dangerous driving, which Judge Tina Landale agreed to separate from the arson charges.

The aggravated arson charge alleges that on July 11, 2026 she destroyed by fire moorland belonging to United Utilities, being reckless as to whether the life of others was endangered. The separate arson charge alleges that on the same date, without lawful excuse, she destroyed by fire moorland belonging to United Utilities, being reckless as to whether it was destroyed or damaged.

Firefighters from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were first called to Dove Stone on July 11 in response to a blaze which spiralled rapidly out of control. It later combined with a second, unconnected moorland fire which had started in Tintwistle, Derbyshire.

At its peak, more than 70 firefighters and volunteers were deployed to the scene with 11 fire engines, four wildlife units and helicopters to contain the blaze. Smoke spread as far as Salford Quays, approximately 12 miles from Saddleworth, and multiple road closures were put in place around the reservoir.

The fire service is no longer treating the fire as a major incident, but has warned people to remain clear of the area. Police have continued to ask the public to stop sharing posts and speculation about the fire online.

The court heard that four other people have been arrested and interviewed in relation to the fire. A provisional trial date for both arson charges has been set for May 17, 2027. Care-Slede will be sentenced for the dangerous driving charges on September 29.