Moorland fire near Burnley now under control, say fire service

Firefighters from Lancashire and West Yorkshire battled the blaze which began in Widdup Road, near Hebden Bridge, yesterday afternoon (Sunday, April 20).

Three fire engines from Lancashire were called to the moors to help West Yorkshire Fire Service tackle the fire, which continued to burn until around 8pm.

Three pumps from West Yorkshire remained at the scene overnight to keep watch for potential hot spots that might reignite the fire.

Sean Walton, of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said conditions had improved overnight and the fire has been successfully contained.

He said the fire is believed to have been started deliberately.

He said: "We are treating this fire as deliberate. If anyone has any information then please contact police."

At its peak, eight fire engines, as well as specialist wildfire appliances and crews, used beaters, water backpacks and blowers to keep the fire from spreading.

Members of the public are asked to avoid the area today as fire crews continue to monitor the moorland for flare ups.