Drone warning as crews tackle major moorland fire

People have been warned not to fly drones above a major moorland fire in Derbyshire as firefighters continue to use helicopters to tackle the blaze that first began last month.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service was first called to Tintwistle Moor, near Glossop, on 24 June, where about 260 hectares (642 acres) had been affected and a major incident was declared on 13 July.

On Monday the service said 65 firefighters remained at the scene with 15 people from Derby Mountain Rescue Team and 10 from United Utilities "who are continuing to work in challenging conditions".

Firefighters urged people not to fly drones above the blaze or wildfires at nearby Dovestone Reservoir and Swineshaw Moor.

A fire service spokesperson said crews were working "tirelessly to contain the fire, deal with hotspots and prevent any further spread".

It added the main area of focus on Monday was the Crowden and Arnfield areas, where there had been flare-ups overnight, and that four helicopters were carrying out water drops.

The A628 remains closed in both directions between Hollingworth and Flouch to allow emergency services to access the site.

Firefighters have asked members of the public to support crews by "avoiding affected moorland areas and complying with all restrictions and road closures".

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