A documentary has been released telling the story of a devastating moorland wildfire that swept through the Goyt Valley, near Buxton, in spring 2025 and the ongoing community-led efforts to restore the landscape.
Commissioned by Moors for the Future Partnership, the film centres on the voices of local residents, businesses and volunteers who witnessed the blaze, which tore through more than 1.7 km² of peatland over two days.
Described by firefighters as ‘the size of 325 football pitches’, the fire broke out near Errwood Reservoir at the end of April 2025 and required helicopters, specialist equipment and crews from multiple regional services to bring it under control.
The timing of the fire proved particularly devastating, striking at the height of the breeding season for rare moorland birds. Many nests and chicks were lost as flames ripped through the vegetation and trees.
In the wake of the destruction, local businesses including Forest Distillery joined forces with Moors for the Future volunteers to begin the slow work of repairing the damaged moor. Their efforts have focused largely on planting sphagnum moss, a moisture-loving plant that can hold up to 20 times its own weight in water.
By creating wetter ground conditions, the moss helps reduce the risk of future wildfires. Volunteers have also worked to block eroded gullies with stone and timber, creating small dams that pool water on the moor and further boost its resilience.
Filmed in the months leading up to the first anniversary of the blaze, the documentary serves as both a record of the damage and a testament to the ongoing restoration work. It was released on the anniversary of the fire as a reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable peatland habitats.
Emma Shaw, Communications Programme Manager for Moors for the Future Partnership, said: ‘The documentary is an expression of hope and appreciation for this well-loved area of moorland, where new life has returned after the fire. The Goyt Valley moors are home to specialist wildlife and provide people with amazing places to explore; we’re delighted to tell the story of how the moor is starting to heal with the help of people who love and care for this place.’
