WINTER HILL FIRE UPDATE:
Yesterday, the Fire and Police Minister Nick Hurd MP spoke in Parliament, confirming that the Government is in close contact with responders on the ground and reiterated that they will provide additional support as and when needed.
As of this morning, there were 30 fire engines stationed at Winter Hill with more expected throughout the day. This includes firefighters from Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Tyne and Wear, Shropshire and Nottinghamshire. A team of specialist wildfire firefighters from Wales have also attended.
This wider support is being co-ordinated by a team in the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, directly funded by the Home Office, which provides specialist support in major emergencies such as this.
I am meeting the Minister later today to relay the concerns of my constituents, particularly those in Horwich and Blackrod.