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On Friday 17 July, Selwood teams were on the ground working around the clock alongside United Utilities, the emergency services, and partner organisations as part of a major multi-agency response to the ongoing moorland fires at Dovestone Reservoir.
Mission-critical support on the front lines
Speed and collaboration had been vital to containing the incident. To ensure our specialist equipment reached the scene as quickly as possible, Selwood teams travelled to the site under a blue-light police escort all the way from Liverpool.
Once on-site, our primary mission was to support the incredible efforts of the fire brigade and United Utilities as they worked hand-in-hand to prevent the fire from spreading. Emergency services had dug out strategic trenches and pits to create crucial firebreaks. Selwood’s role was to keep those pits filled and move vast quantities of water from the reservoir out to the local fields where firefighters were actively deploying their kits.
To handle the immense pressure and distance required for this operation, our teams deployed 2 x D100 pumps, approximately 120m of Baur pipework, and 250m of lay flat pipe to keep the water moving exactly where it was needed most.
Dan Downes, Catchment Controller at United Utilities, shared his thanks to the Selwood team, saying:
The environment they have worked in has been incredibly challenging, yet they acted and responded with professionalism, commitment and with a sense of urgency. The speed that the teams mobilised, assessed sites, and supported the ongoing incident has made a big difference and they are a credit to the company.
A huge Thank You to everyone involved
We want to extend our deepest thanks to our teams, the emergency services, and every partner organisation involved in this response. The dedication, sheer hard work, and professionalism shown during such an incredibly challenging incident have been nothing short of inspiring.
Keeping our communities safe
The situation remains active, and we urge everyone to put safety first.
Follow official updates: Please continue to follow the latest advice, local guidance, and updates from official emergency services sources, as well as trusted local outlets like the Manchester Evening News and BBC News.
Avoid the area: If you are near the affected area, please avoid travelling to the scene. Keeping the roads and surrounding areas clear allows the emergency services and partner teams to continue their vital work safely and without delay.