Dovestone Reservoir overcrowding sparks fire concerns in Oldham
Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham was extremely crowded on Saturday, March 21, with traffic and parking chaos reported by Councillor Helen Bishop. Fire risks emerged as people were seen barbecuing, prompting Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service to extinguish a barbecue fire near the boathouse area. A fire engine was dispatched to investigate rising smoke behind trees near a brook. Councillor Bishop highlighted the need for a multi-agency information day to promote the Countryside Code. The area has a history of fire incidents, including the 2018 Saddleworth Moor wildfire, the largest in UK history.