On Saturday 11 July 2026, a major moorland fire broke out at Dove Stone Reservoir in Saddleworth, prompting a large-scale emergency response from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, supported by a water-dropping helicopter and specialist wildfire units. Thankfully, no lives were lost, and the fire is now under active investigation.

While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, moorland habitats like this take many years to recover naturally, and the RSPB's on-the-ground expertise will be essential in helping the landscape, and the wildlife that depends on it, bounce back. The RSPB Manchester Local Group Members were very distressed to see this breaking news.

By taking on the Greater Manchester Ringway Walk this August, we hope to raise vital funds to support the RSPB's recovery work at Dove Stone and reinforce how important their role is in protecting our local landscapes for the future.

RSPB are passionate about nature, dedicated to saving it. Since we started on our mission in 1889, the threats to nature have continued to grow, but we've grown to meet them too.

We’re now the largest nature conservation charity in the country, consistently delivering successful conservation, forging powerful new partnerships with other organisations and inspiring others to stand up and give nature the home it deserves.

With your fundraising support and donations to conservation you can help us to give nature a home.