Dozens of firefighters tackled a large woodland and grass fire at Hacked Way Lane near Macclesfield on Tuesday afternoon. The fire broke out just after 16:00 and required ten fire engines and specialist units at its height.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said a discarded disposable barbecue was the "probable cause" of the blaze. Crews remained at the scene on Wednesday morning.
Emergency response and water drops
United Utilities assisted firefighters by dropping water from a helicopter to help control the fire. Firefighters used specialist wildfire equipment and divided the incident into sectors to prevent the flames from spreading further.
Public safety warnings
The fire service urged people to stay away from the area after visitors continued to arrive while emergency crews worked nearby. Conditions could change rapidly, with warnings of heavy smoke. Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed, and drivers were asked not to block routes needed by emergency vehicles.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said the incident was a reminder of the "devastating impact that careless behaviour can have on our countryside, particularly during periods of warm, dry weather".