A WARNING has been issued by firefighters over grass fires after a 'major incident' was declared following a huge moor blaze in the North West.

Firefighters from East Lancashire have been called to help battle raging fires which continue to sweep across Saddleworth Moor.

Crews from Hyndburn, Earby and Longridge have attended so far, with more expected to attend as firefighters rotate shifts, with the blaze expected to continue for several days.

The army is on standby as Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service put in a plan of action to douse the fire which initially broke out on Sunday afternoon before it reignited the following day and has since worsened.

More than 50 homes have so far been evacuated in the village of Carrbrook in Stalybridge and firefighters have been helped by farmers, mountain rescue volunteers and more as they battle to bring the blaze, described local police as ‘unprecedented in recent times’, under control.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service have warned people out and about in grassy countryside or woodland to be extra careful as the very dry conditions mean fires can easily start.

A spokesman said: "Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows ,they can ruin whole fields of crops.

"Take extra care with the disposal of liquid cigarettes, particularly from moving vehicles.

"Ensure that your barbecue is fully extinguished and cold before disposing of the contents.

"The involvement of the public is a vital factor in preventing the damage that wildfires can cause."

In total 69 wild fires have been reported across Lancashire in the last two years.

This comes after more than 35 fighters were called to a massive wildfire in Rivington on Monday evening.

Although the fire has been extinguished a small presence remained up on Rivington Pike throughout today to continue monitoring the ground.

There was no flames however small pockets remained smoking so firefighters were forced to keep an eye on them to prevent re-ignition.

A review of the ground is scheduled for Thursday morning to see whether firefighters had to remain inspecting the ground today.

A spokesman for Lancashire fire service said: "Given the conditions we need to make sure a fire doesn't start again.

"We will be reviewing the ground tomorrow and making plans going forward then."