A MOORLAND fire above Turton is being treated as deliberate.

The wildfire blaze which spread across some 30 hectares of moor is currently under investigation by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service who said they are treating the incident as suspicious.

About 30 firefighters, including crews from Bolton, were called to tackle the raging fire on Turton Moors last night.

Crews were called to an area off Blackburn Road and Roman Road in Turton.

The blaze had spread across moorland above The Crown and Thistle pub.

A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire is still under investigation.

"It has been declared as having been started deliberately.

"The fire in Turton was one of three moorland fires that we responded to over the weekend, including one in Bacup and another in Rawtenstall.

"Crews from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service were supported by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in responding to the Turton incident.

"The fire spread to an area of approximately 30 hectares."

Firefighters were called to the blaze at about 5.30pm.

Six fire engines responded to the incident as well as a wildfire unit.

The emergency teams used beaters, air blowers and aqua leaders to extinguish the fire and prevent the flames from spreading.

Firefighters also tactically burnt the area to prevent the flames from spreading.

It took about two hours to put out the fire.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service later thanked crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service on Twitter.