A man who started a huge fire which broke out on a moorland spanning an area the size of two football pitches has been cautioned by police.
Lancashire Constabulary's East Rural Task Force and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service launched a joint investigation three months ago into the blaze which sent smoke billowing high into the sky, LancsLive reports.
Firefighters were sent to Musbury Tor, Helmshore, after being alerted by members of the public at around 8pm on April 22.
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LancsLive reported at the end of May how officers released photographs of four people they want to speak in connection with the investigation. The force said no injuries were sustained but the fire resulted in 'significant impact on wildlife and their habitats'.
In an update today, the force confirmed a male came forward as a result of the appeal and was interviewed under caution. Officers said he 'fully admitted the offence and showed remorse for his actions throughout' and received an Adult Caution.
In a statement, Rossendale Rural Task Force said: "In May 2022 your East Rural Task Force launched a joint investigation with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and subsequent social media appeal in relation to a Moorland Fire on Mursbury Tor, Helmshore which caused damage to around two hectors of land resulting in significant impact on wildlife and their habitats. This also impacts the local community in addition to being resource intensive for the Emergency Services which has financial implications.
"We can now update you that a male came forward as a result of our appeal and was interviewed under caution where he fully admitted the offence and showed remorse for his actions throughout. Working together with our partners at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and United Utilities the male has received an Adult Caution.
"With more warmer weather looking like it is on the way, this is a timely reminder to urge members of the public to act responsibly when out enjoying the weather. Whilst we all want to enjoy the sunshine, it is vital that we protect our Countryside and wildlife and this incident highlights how easily a fire can start through pure carelessness with items such as cigarette's, disposable BBQ's and open fires etc."
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