FIRE chiefs have again warned people against open flames on moorland.

It comes nearly after devastating fires ripped through Winter Hill and caused extensive damage near the Dovestones Reservoir in Oldham.

Despite repeated warnings, fire crews caught a group of people preparing a barbecue last weekend at Dovestones.

The sighting prompted Dave Swallow of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue to appeal to any moorland travellers.

“Prevention and reassurance work around moorland fires continues across Greater Manchester, with ourselves often working closely with local councils and Greater Manchester Police,” he said.

“We continue to ask people to take care, especially when on the moors, and never light a barbecue or start any kind of fire. These fires are devastating and the consequences so costly – to the community, the environment and also to our service and resources. Finally, if you see a fire in the countryside please dial 999, providing as much information as possible about its location, and never attempt to tackle yourself.”

The Winter Hill fire raged for nearly a month last year.