Major moorland fire has 'no visible naked flames'

Firefighters tackling a major moorland fire in Derbyshire have said there are "currently no visible naked flames".

Crews were first called to Tintwistle Moor, near Glossop in Derbyshire, on 24 June, and a major incident was declared on 13 July.

Analysis of data from the European Forest Fire Information System by BBC Verify previously estimated the fire had burned 606 hectares (1,497 acres) - equivalent to 900 football pitches.

In an update issued on Wednesday, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) said it was continuing operations to extinguish deep-seated pockets of heat and reduce the risk of re-ignition.

It added the nature of peat fires meant they could remain active beneath the surface for extended periods and required "careful monitoring" and treatment.

DFRS said firefighters had undertaken an "enormous physical effort" to lay more than two kilometres (1.24 miles) of hose across "difficult terrain" in the Featherbed Moss area.

"This achievement will support ongoing firefighting operations and strengthen our ability to tackle remaining hotspots and any flare ups across the moor," it added.

DFRS said it anticipated the A628 Woodhead Pass would remain shut until 17:00 BST on Thursday at the earliest.

Concerns remain regarding fire-damaged trees near the road, the fire service added, and opening it was subject to the outcome of a tree safety assessment.

DFRS said: "We understand and appreciate the ongoing concerns and frustration this closure may cause for local communities, businesses and road users.

"However, public and firefighter safety must remain our priority."

According to DFRS, forecasts have indicated there will be a "significant change in weather conditions", including a shift in wind direction and a "return to very warm temperatures".

It added it is "maintaining a close watch" on the weather and assessing any potential impact it may have on the fire.

DFRS said: "This major incident remains both complex and demanding, and while substantial progress has been made, a significant amount of work continues to ensure the fire is fully extinguished and the area is safe."

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