Rt Rev Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn; Rt Rev Philip North, Bishop of Burnley and Rt Rev Dr Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster have made a joint statement today as firefighters from across the County and beyond, alongside the Army, continue to battle blazes on moors on the Lancashire/Bolton border and in other parts of Greater Manchester. They said today:
“Communities in Lancashire and parts of Greater Manchester continue to be threatened by the terrible wildfires on our moorland.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who may have had to leave their homes and with all those who are facing disruption in any other way.
“We also join with parishes across our Diocese in praying for the brave members of the emergency services and the Army who are working tirelessly together to ensure the safety of those affected and to put the blazes out.
“We pay tribute to their steadfastness in this time of trial and are sure everyone in the areas nearest to the blazes will also be drawing strength from their presence.
“We have heard of numerous volunteers, including volunteers from local faith communities, doing what they can to help and would encourage them to continue, whilst cooperating with the advice and instruction from the fire service at all times.
“Earlier this week there was also a short community prayer service, led by Rev Neil Kelley, to pray for the emergency services, the army and the local community which took place at St Laurence’s Church in Chorley town centre.”