Wildlife begins to return to Doncaster moorland after devastating fire

Hatfield Moors suffered huge damage with fire crews spending more than three weeks tackling the massive moorland fire earlier this summer.

But there are signs that animals are starting to return to the scorched and barren moors following the blaze which could be seen for miles around at its height.

Paul Duncan, Area Manager for Natural England said: “I am pleased to be able to report that there are signs that parts of the moor are starting to recover quickly from the fire, with species such as nightjar beginning to hold territories in the burnt areas.”

He said: “Natural England has over the last few weeks been working as part of the Hatfield Moor recovery group to establish the next steps for Hatfield Moor in the aftermath of the fire.

“Natural England has appointed a project officer to work with the South Yorkshire and Humberside Fire Services, the Local Authorities and other agencies, stakeholders and neighbours to incorporate the lessons learned from the critical incident into a revised Wildfire Response Plan and a Wildfire Management Plan.

"Safety assessments of the site are largely completed and many areas Hatfield Moors are now open again to the public.

“As ever I urge people to continue to respect the environment and follow the Countryside Code. In particular, please do not light fires or barbecues in the countryside in order to help support our emergency services and protect the environment.”