Mossley Cricket Club has gone in to bat for firefighters battling moorland blazes near Oldham, co-ordinating a huge community effort to ensure those at the front line are cared for. The club has mobilized local volunteers to provide refreshments, warm meals, and essential supplies to emergency services working tirelessly on the hills above the town.

Oldham Mountain Rescue Team has played a vital role in the response, offering medical cover for firefighters tackling the large moorland fires at Dove Stone Reservoir and Tintwistle. As Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) continues its operations, the volunteer organisation has been providing crucial support at the scene, ensuring firefighters can concentrate on containing the blazes without compromising their own safety.

The fires have been exacerbated by public behaviour, with reports of barbecues being lit at Dove Stone Reservoir despite clear bans. On Sunday, July 13, sunny weather drew hundreds of people to the Greenfield site, but disregard for rules prompted swift action from firefighters. The Peak District National Park Authority has repeatedly stated that barbecues or fires of any sort are not permitted, urging visitors to follow guidelines to prevent further outbreaks. This incident underscores the challenges faced by emergency services in managing visitor activity in sensitive moorland areas near Oldham.

Earlier in the year, crews tackled significant moorland fires above Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield. On Wednesday, April 18, firefighters were called to extinguish blazes on the hills, but the fires reignited the following day, spreading further across the valley. The consecutive days of firefighting tested the resources of local services, with support from community groups like Mossley Cricket Club and Oldham Mountain Rescue Team proving invaluable in sustaining the response.

The community’s response to these incidents reflects the strong local spirit in Oldham and surrounding areas. From providing direct support to emergency crews to standing in solidarity with those affected, residents have shown their commitment to protecting the moorland landscape that defines the region. As fire risks persist, especially during dry and warm weather, the importance of adhering to guidelines and supporting these efforts cannot be overstated.

Both the cricket club and the mountain rescue team continue to work alongside GMFRS to ensure that frontline staff have what they need to tackle any further incidents. Their dedication serves as a reminder of the vital role volunteers play in local emergency responses, complementing the work of professional services like GMFRS. The ongoing cooperation between community groups and emergency services highlights the resilience and unity of the Oldham area in facing environmental challenges.