Above: The lane from Derbyshire Bridge to Goytsclough served as a barrier to the flames. It’s good to see the green shoots of ferns and bracken starting to rise above the ashes.
It’s now over a month since fires ravaged a large area of the southern Goyt Valley. Clouds of billowing smoke could be seen on the far horizon from way beyond Buxton. Derbyshire Fire Service said the total area of moorland destroyed was equivalent to 330 football pitches – over 550 acres.
The cause hasn’t been found, but it’s likely to have been a cheap and portable barbeque which was left alight and unattended. A number of people using these have been spotted in the valley recently. The smouldering heat from these BBQs can travel some distance just below the surface, erupting into flame beyond the original source.
The fire proved a major disaster to both the landscape and wildlife, particularly for the many nesting birds that shelter on the moorland. But the signs of recovery are already showing, with green shoots emerging through the charred ashes.
Above: The sad remains of a nest containing unhatched eggs – one of a great many that were lost.
Above: Derbyshire Fire Service on the Cat & Fiddle’s car park.
Karl Bond is the owner of The Forest Distillery which took over the Cat & Fiddle a few years ago. I asked him how close the flames came to his historic pub:
It was definitely a scary day for the Cat & Fiddle. We called the fire service at 10am having spotted the smoke in the valley. By 2pm the flames were up by our fence and close to our gas tanks. The fire service, rangers, gamekeepers and all volunteers were amazing. They protected the building and worked tirelessly. We can’t thank them enough.
My job on the day was to keep them refreshed and allow use of the old building for comfort breaks, so I had it pretty easy! BBQ’s, cigarettes, campfires and anything with a naked flame should be kept well clear of the beautiful Goyt Valley and surrounding areas.
Above: An aerial shot by Mat showing the extent of the fire. The Cat & Fiddle is just in view at far right, with Stake Farm below.
Mat Sirrell took some jaw-dropping photos and videos using a drone flying over the area. They show just how much damage can be wrought by something so simple as a portable barbeque. It’s led to calls for their sale to be made illegal.
Sue on the Goyt Valley Facebook Group has started a petition to introduce such a ban. And High Peak Borough Council is asking residents for their views on banning barbeques, campfires, fireworks and sky lanterns in areas most at risk. Judging by how quickly the fire spread over such a vast area, this seems a highly sensible move.
Walked there yesterday (5th June). I had no idea about the fire so was shocked to see the devastation. I’ve visited Goyt Valley for over 30 years and know the area well. As stated, I did see plenty of fresh growth; natures always recovers from such tragedy, however, this can’t be said for wildlife. This section is right next to the road. I’m not saying it was caused by a motorist, but, I have several times seem some very disrespectful sights from drivers and passengers. I also saw 4 red deer just slightly further up, what a great sight that was.