Heywood Tanks help battle Winter Hill blaze

Date published: 13 July 2018

Heywood Tanks helped in battling the raging moorland fire on Winter Hill in Bolton this week.

The group sent a Shielder, capable of carrying 2,000 litres of water, equipped with pumps to help with the operations after the fire had been blazing for around two weeks, leaving the ground smouldering and burnt. The fire is currently under the control of Lancashire Fire.

Steve Garrett, a mechanic in the Army who volunteers with Heywood Tanks, went up on Friday 6 July, until Wednesday 11 July, working with various fire crews from across the country.

He said: “We knew we had this metal box on metal tracks capable of getting pretty much anywhere on the moors, so we offered to help Lancashire Fire. We decided to do it after seeing the firefighters with their 20 litre knapsacks with pumps, crossing the moors.

“They really appreciated it, and I enjoyed helping them out. The fire service were absolutely fabulous. They looked after me and were so enthusiastic about the tank. They were all keen to get on board and get the job done.

“It’s hard to describe that level of heat exhaustion. The destruction of the grass was Somme-esque, and the ground was cracking from the heat. It was like walking on a barbecue; we were wetting the surface to stop it re-igniting, but the physical heat was tremendous.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with some exceptional firefighters from many stations all over the country. Their job was hampered by lack of equipment for the task in hand, but the management was well-planned.

“It was nice to see the area behind everyone: loads of local business brought food and water which were well-received.

“We have hopefully assisted to flatten this fire and make a difference to a small part of this hill. It was an honour and a pleasure to have taken part.”