Volunteers Keep Firefighters Going During Major Moorland Wildfire
By Community Correspondent
While firefighters continue tackling one of Derbyshire's biggest moorland wildfires in recent years, volunteers from The Salvation Army have been working behind the scenes to keep crews fed and refreshed.
Since a major incident was declared near Tintwistle Moor, Glossop, on 13 July, the charity's Emergency Response Vehicle team has been supporting firefighters from Derbyshire and neighbouring counties as they battle the blaze.
More than 100 firefighters and volunteers have been involved in tackling the fire, which has spread across around 600 hectares of moorland and woodland.
Salvation Army volunteers have travelled from across the East Midlands and North West to provide practical support, serving around 200 freshly made sandwiches, hundreds of hot and cold drinks, fruit and snacks each day.
So far, the team has provided around 400 hours of support during the incident.
Carelle Daws, Divisional Leader for The Salvation Army in the East Midlands, said:
"Our Emergency Response team exists to care for those who are caring for others. Whether it's a cup of tea after hours on the fireground, a freshly made sandwich, or simply a friendly face asking how they're doing, these moments remind emergency crews that they are valued and supported."
She added that it had been a privilege for volunteers to work alongside Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency services throughout the incident.
The deployment is the fourth time The Salvation Army's Emergency Response Vehicle has been called to support crews at Derbyshire moorland fires since April.
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Ady Clee, Territorial Emergency Response Officer, praised both firefighters and volunteers for their commitment.
He said: "Our team is made up of everyday volunteers who have travelled long distances, prepared hundreds of meals and refreshments, and given countless hours of their time to ensure emergency crews can remain focused on the task at hand."
The Salvation Army's Emergency Response Vehicle provides welfare support to emergency services and communities during major incidents across the UK.
