RESIDENTS in Ramsbottom have been urged to be vigilant following two major moorland fires in Bolton and Tameside.

Residents took to social media to voice their concerns after several glass and plastic bottles were found at the Peel Tower and Holcombe Hill areas.

One resident shared that an area of dry moorland on Holcombe Hill had been scorched after a discarded empty glass bottle magnified the suns rays.

It comes as firefighters from across the country tackle moorland blazes at Winter Hill and Stalybridge.

Councillor Robert Hodkinson, who represents Ramsbottom on Bury Council said: "During this extremely hot dry weather I urge all those who visit Holcombe Hill and the wider moorlands around Ramsbottom to be vigilant and help to prevent any fires starting.

"Please do not leave anything on the moors including bottles which can cause fires as the sun is magnified through the glass, if you see discarded bottles please remove them. "Smokers should take care when putting out their cigarettes."

Cllr Hodkinson urged residents to dial 999 and speak to the fire service if they see flames on the moors.

He also called for walkers to keep hydrated when outside in the hot weather.

Councillor Kevin Thomas who also represents Ramsbottom, also called for residents to remain vigilant.

He also thanked the firefighters who are responding to the ongoing fires in the Bolton and Stalybridge areas.

On Monday, there were 26 fire engines at Winter Hill, at which time crews had been tackling the blaze for six days.

Cllr Thomas said: "As we all know most people are usually very responsible when out walking or having a picnic in the countryside.

"However the fires on Saddleworth Moor and Winter Hill have highlighted the need to be extra vigilant about leaving or using anything that could start a fire.

"I recently noticed a post on social media about a discarded empty glass bottle on Holcombe Hill that had magnified the suns rays and scorched a significant patch of tinder dry moorland. This could have been much worse.

"I would ask all members of our community and visitors to keep their eyes peeled for anything that could possibly be incendiary and dispose of it safely.

"I would also like to personally pay tribute to all of our firefighters, some of whom live and work in Ramsbottom and Bury, for their amazing work. They are real heroes and we as a community can support them by looking after our environment and minimising the risk of these incidents."