30-04-2025
Landmark Cat and Fiddle pub closes as huge wildfire rages on nearby moors
The landmark Cat and Fiddle pub has closed this evening as a huge wildfire rages on the nearby moors.
Dozens of firefighters are currently tackling the blaze, which broke out near Errwood reservoir in the Upper Goyt Valley late this morning.
Drone footage released by Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service shows a large area of moor has been scorched as the fire spreads southwards.
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The service warned the smoke is affecting the centre of Buxton, around four miles away.
In a live broadcast on the Cat and Fiddle Facebook page, owner Lindsay Bond said: "We've had a lot of enquiries for our safety and welfare and so far, touch wood, everyone's OK and the building is OK.
"The periphery is being taken care by Cheshire Fire Service and Derbyshire Fire service.
"We're discouraging people from visiting or coming up - there's ash and smoke in the vicinity and lots of emergency vehicles trying to do their job, so unless your journey is urgent I would avoid the area.
"There are plumes [of smoke] just behind us, but luckily I think they are getting further away. It's all hands on deck here. What a dramatic day."
In an update at around 5pm, the Peak District Moorland Group said the fire was the worst in the area since 2018. It said: "The area is under a United Utilities management regime and has had extensive interventions over the last 20 years.
"With multiple nests of all ground nesting birds being burnt out and the fire heading towards commercial forestry, it's the worst this area has seen since the 2018 fires when 40 hectares burnt on Ravenslow, one of the most prized blanket bog areas in this location."
In a statement earlier DFRS said: "Emergency services are currently dealing with a large wildfire near Errwood Reservoir in the Goyt Valley. Firefighters were mobilised to the incident following a call at 11.42am today.
"Ten fire engines from Derbyshire and Cheshire are in attendance supported by a water carrier, an Argocat and a Unimog. We are receiving a high number of calls regarding a smoke plume which can be seen in the area.
"A road closure is currently in place from the Errwood Hall car park. Please avoid the area. Residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed if affected by the smoke."
