Warning as helicopters tackle fire in forest

A large woodland and grass fire has broken out in Macclesfield Forest.

Ten fire engines and specialist units are tackling the blaze after crews were called to Hacked Way Lane, near Macclesfield, Cheshire, just after 16:00 BST.

Footage shared with the BBC shows a helicopter dropping water on the fire, with United Utilities providing the aerial support.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service urged people to stay away, saying visitors have continued to arrive while emergency crews work nearby. It added conditions could change rapidly and warned of heavy smoke, with people advised to keep their windows and doors closed while drivers have been asked not to block routes needed by emergency vehicles.

Firefighters are using specialist wildfire equipment and have divided the incident into sectors, as they work to prevent the flames from spreading.

An incident command unit is coordinating the response alongside Cheshire Police and United Utilities.

The fire service also warned people of the danger posed by getting too close to the flames and firefighting operations.

"Stay safe, stay away," the service said.

Read more stories from Cheshire on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC North West on X. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.