Oldham Reporter from Monday, July 13th, 2026

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has declared a major incident and remains at the scene, where firefighters are continuing to work alongside partner agencies to contain the Dovestone wildfires and prevent further spread.

A 20-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson following the catastrophic moorland fires at Dovestone.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that the cause of the weekend’s Dovestone wildfires will be fully investigated.

Nine vehicles were seized, one traffic offence reported, and three people were arrested following a major police operation to tackle anti-social behaviour caused by e-bikes and quad bikes.

Plans to restore the site where a Grade II listed chapel once stood have been blocked despite planning permission being granted. The owners fear no progress and further decay of the building would be ‘the greatest loss’ to Oldham.

Two men and a boy were arrested following a police crackdown on anti-social use of e-bikes and Surron bikes in the St Mary’s area of Oldham.