Arson still a factor in Belmont moorland fire outbreak (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Arson still a factor in Belmont moorland fire outbreak

10:46am Thursday 18th March 2010 in

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FIRE chiefs have not ruled out arson as the cause of a huge fire which swept across moorland at Belmont.

More than 20 firefighters battled for three hours to control the blaze behind the Wilton Arms on Tuesday night.

Yesterday investigation officers examined the scene for clues and also to make sure the fire would not reignite.

Now, they are urging people to think twice while out and about in the countryside.

Fire Service station commander Paul Duggan said: “Thankfully, there were no signs of the fire returning when a crew went out there yesterday to check.

“We still do not know for certain what caused it and we cannot rule out deliberate ignition.

“It could have been something as minor as someone throwing away a cigarette.”

Since temperatures began to climb into double figures a fortnight ago, and because of a prolonged dry spell, fire crews have been tackling dozens of grass fires — some deliberate and some accidental — at all times of day.

Mr Duggan added: “This is one of the two times of year when our officers are dealing with a spate of grass and moorland fires. The other is around June time.

“This is because all the dead vegetation gets dried out when there has been no rain for a while and it makes it ideal for burning.

“If it rains in the next few days, that can only be good for us.

"Any rain reduces the risk of grass fire and makes it possible for the new vegetation to come through.

“We would appeal to anyone who is thinking of deliberately starting a fire to think carefully about the drain on our resources and the damage they are doing to the environment.

“Also, people out walking in the should be careful not to discard cigarettes and people having barbecues in these areas should take precautions against the risk of fire.”

The Wilton Arms is now open as usual.