Peak District firefighters tackle huge new moorland fire near Ramshaw

More than 200-square metres of grassland near Ramshaw has been burning overnight, with fire crews working around the clock to tackle the blaze.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service had 45 firefighters, seven fire engines and specialist appliances at the scene this morning, having already been working to put the fire out for more than 14 hours since the first emergency call was received at around 5.15pm on Saturday.

Deputy chief fire officer Rob Barber said: “The fire is proving very challenging to tackle due to the rough terrain and the changing wind directions which can cause the fire to spread rapidly.

“However, our crews are trained for dealing with this type of fire and we are working with our partners at the Peak District National Park, the local councils, the Environment Agency and Staffordshire Police to put our well-rehearsed plans into place.”

Smoke drifting from the moorland fire near Ramshaw. Photo: Staffordshire Fire & Rescue.

He added: “The roads leading up to the former Mermaid pub are closed and so we’d encourage people to avoid the area and urge them not to come and view the fire.

“For those residents and businesses in the area that are being affected by the large smoke plume we’d advise them to keep their windows and doors closed as a precautionary measure.”

People living in areas affected by the smoke have been advised to keep their doors and windows closed.

It comes as Derbyshire Fire & Rescue crews are continuing their efforts to support colleagues in the northwest fighting several huge fires around Manchester.

An aerial shot showing the scale of the devastation. Photo: Staffordshire Fire & Rescue.

A team from Whaley Bridge station has also been called out this morning to deal with a half-acre grassland fire on Dale Road in Dove Holes.

A spokesman said: “Thanks to everyone who has been generously donating refreshments and other items for working on moorlands.

“Such has been the generosity, our firefighters now have everything they need and no further supplies are required.”

They added: “Our firefighters’ welfare continues to be a priority and the provision of any refreshments and other sundries that are required is well catered for as part of our operation.

“Once again, a huge thank you to everyone who has donated supplies to our crews.”