A SPATE of fires being treated as arson have been reported.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service resources have been stretched in the last couple of weeks after the wildfires in Saddleworth Moor in Tameside and Winter Hill in Bolton have led to the army lending their support.

But fire engines have been called to a number of incidents at the Trees estate in Leigh in the last week with Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Wigan Council being informed that they were likely to have been started deliberately.

Video courtesy of Andrew Grundy

Eyewitnesses of people starting fires have also taken to social media to vent their anger.

Katherine Armitage, assistant director for environmental services at the council, said: “We have been working closely with partner organisations including GMP and the fire service on the ongoing fires on the land behind The Trees estate.

Video courtesy of Andrew Grundy

“Our staff are working hard to ensure surrounding properties are protected and we would advise residents close to the location to keep their windows and doors closed if smoke is reaching their property.

“We would ask that if anyone witnesses any fires being started to contact the emergency services straight away.”

If you have any information about any of the incidents, contact the police on 101.