Six fire engines sent to battle large grass blaze at Winter Hill

Firefighters were called to reports of a grass fire on Winter Hill between Pigeon Tower and the transmitting station at around 3.25am this morning (May 30).

Fire crews from Chorley, Rawtenstall and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene.

Approximately 10,000 square metres – equivalent to around 40 tennis courts - of grass had gone up in flames.

Crews immediately requested additional resources upon arrival, increasing the number of fire engines to six.

In an update posted at 10.30am, seven hours after firefighters were first called to the scene, LFRS confirmed they remain at the scene to dampen down smouldering areas.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said: "The burn team from Bacup are working to cut back vegetation to the side of the fire to help prevent fire spread.

"Firefighters are continuing to dampen down smouldering areas."

An off-road vehicle, two blowers and firefighters with beaters were involved in putting out the blaze.

The air support unit was also called to the scene to assist with tactical support, and the burn team from Bacup was also requested.

As firefighters tackled the blaze, police came across a second fire located near Anglezarke reservoir.

A fire engine from Chorley attended and found an area of gorse and peat ablaze on the shoreline.

A spokesperson added: "The fire involved an area approximately 100m by 50m.

"Crews were able to quickly surround the fire using two hose reels, one jet and a light portable pump.

"Firefighters were in attendance approximately two and a half hours."