Winter Hill fire reignites and is in multiple locations

Two distinct plumes of smoke can be seen coming from Rivington on Friday afternoon Pic: Stephen Melling

Firefighters are continuing to battle multiple fires on Winter Hill.

Crews from Preston, and across Lancashire, have now spent more than 24-hours up at Rivington.

The fire, which remained blazing overnight, looked as though it had been close to being brought under control during Friday (29 June) morning.

However, additional fire crews have now been sent to the scene as the 1 kilometre square fire has reignited in places.

A number of reports have said two large smoke plumes can be seen coming from the hill, suggesting there’s a different part of the moorland ablaze.

A total of 19 fire crews are at the scene, with up to 80 firefighters working on the fire at any one time.

A spokeswoman for the fire service confirmed the fire was never fully out, despite some reports it had been extinguished.

Helicopter helping on #winterhill @LancashireFire pic.twitter.com/QwRn3Oo7Ea

— Lancs Road Police (@LancsRoadPolice) June 29, 2018

They are being supported by the fire service’s drone and the police helicopter is also in attendance.

The flames are clearly visible on Rivington moorland Pic: Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service

Groundwork Lancashire, who look after Rivington Gardens, have joined the fire service in urging people to stay away from Winter Hill.

They tweeted: “The fire has reignited and is now burning in multiple locations.

“As before please stay away. The road is being blocked by people rubbernecking hampering the emergency services.

“Please stay away and discourage anyone from visiting.”

Many people want to help the firefighters and the fire service said anyone wanting to drop off supplies of bottled water, food, sun cream or other items can do so at their training centre in Southport Road, Euxton.

A 22-year-old man from Bolton has been arrested by Lancashire Police on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life in connection with the Winter Hill blaze which began on Thursday afternoon.