A HUGE wildfire broke out last night at a UK beauty spot after locals reported hearing “loud bangs” at the site.

were called to Dovestone Reservoir in Saddleworth, Manchester, at around 8.45pm on Saturday.

NINTCHDBPICT001094921673A huge fire broke out last night at a UK beauty spot Credit: MEN Media Saddleworth, Oldham, UK, 11 July, 2026. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service responding to the large scale Dovestone Reservoir Fire. Credit: David Murphy / Alamy Live NewsEmergency services were called to Dovestone Reservoir in Saddleworth, Manchester Credit: Alamy

Locals told they heard “loud bangs” at the site, before a blaze broke out.

Smoke can be seen billowing above the moors from several miles away, as emergency services remain in attendance and continue to blast the fire with water.

Members of the public have been advised to avoid the and keep all doors and windows closed.

The cause of the fire is not yet known, with a formal investigation launched today.

Saddleworth, Oldham, UK, 11 July, 2026. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service responding to the large scale Dovestone Reservoir Fire. Credit: David Murphy / Alamy Live NewsLocals reported hearing ‘loud bangs’ at the site before the blaze broke out Credit: Alamy Saddleworth, Oldham, UK, 11 July, 2026. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service responding to the large scale Dovestone Reservoir Fire. Credit: David Murphy / Alamy Live NewsFire and rescue teams remain at the site, with helicopters blasting the blaze with water Credit: Alamy NINTCHDBPICT001094921685Locals have been advised to avoid the area and close their doors and windows Credit: MEN Media NINTCHDBPICT001094921689The cause of the fire is not yet known, with an investigation launched today Credit: MEN Media

Videos of youths setting off near the reservoir have been circulating online, with one firework clearly starting a blaze.

A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At first light, firefighters returned to the moorland and have continued work to contain the fire and prevent further spread.

“Specialist wildfire units, and drone support have been deployed to assist operations, with crews focusing on limiting fire spread across the moorland and ridge areas.

“Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the day while work continues. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible to allow and partner agencies to carry out their work safely.”

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