People across Doncaster reported a strong smell of smoke and a pall of grey haze in the sky as smoke from a large moorland wildfire in West Yorkshire mixed with plumes from other British and international fires and was blown over the borough.
Where the smoke came from
There were no significant local fires in Doncaster reported on the day, but a major moorland wildfire near Marsden in West Yorkshire has been burning for several days, sending smoke large distances as gusty winds picked up the plume. At the same time, wildfires in the Peak District, Wales and Scotland added to the atmosphere’s particulate load. Further afield, drifting smoke from North American wildfires and large fires across Spain, France and Italy were also contributing to the hazy conditions.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service warned residents that current conditions mean smoke may be noticeable across much of the county.
“There are lots of wild, moor and grassland fires at the moment, which combined with wind conditions mean smoke is likely to be smelt in large parts of the county right now… Our 999 operators are extremely busy right now, so please only call if there's a confirmed incident you need us to respond to.”
Practical advice for residents
While the source is largely remote, the effect is local: the smell can be unpleasant and smoky air can affect breathing, particularly among older people, young children and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
- Keep windows and doors closed if you notice the smell of smoke;
- Avoid strenuous exercise outdoors while air smells strongly of smoke;
- Ensure anyone with breathing problems has medication to hand and follows their usual care plan;
- Only call 999 to report confirmed emergencies — services are extremely busy dealing with multiple incidents.
Firefighters also reminded people that carelessness in the countryside remains a major trigger for new blazes. They urged visitors to avoid lighting barbecues or campfires in moor and grassland areas, saying such actions destroy wildlife and valuable habitats in addition to creating extra work for emergency crews.
What to expect next
Plumes of smoke can travel long distances depending on wind direction and speed, so the smell and haze may persist while the moorland fire near Marsden and other blazes continue to burn. Local air quality can change quickly; keep an eye on updates from the Met Office and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service if you are concerned or if the smell becomes stronger.
| Source of smoke | Location / impact |
|---|---|
| Moorland wildfire | Near Marsden, West Yorkshire — major contributor |
| UK wildfires | Peak District, Wales, Scotland — additional local sources |
| International fires | Plumes from North America; large fires in Spain, France and Italy — increased atmospheric pollution |
If you are worried about health effects, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice rather than emergency services, unless you are facing a life‑threatening situation.
