More than 50 firefighters are tackling a huge blaze at a commercial property with plumes of smoke and flames lightening up the night sky in Oldham.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has said there is a large fire at premises on Barry Street in Oldham and were called out around 2.15am today.
Ten fire engines from across Greater Manchester, as well as three aerial appliances and additional support vehicles, are currently in attendance.
The fire is causing traffic disruption in the area including the closure of a section of the A62 Huddersfield Road.
People have posted pics on social media of the huge blaze with some claiming to have heard explosions at the commercial property.
Local residents are being told to remain in doors by the fire brigade who say they are expected to be tacking the incident well into Saturday morning.
It stated: "Over 50 firefighters are currently responding to a large fire at a commercial building on Barry Street, Oldham.
"We expect to be here into the morning so please avoid the area while crews are working.
"Local residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed."
The massive blaze can be seen from miles around Oldham.
The fire service later stated: "At around 2.15am this morning (Saturday 7 May), fire crews were called to reports of a building fire on Barry Street, Oldham.
"Ten fire engines from across Greater Manchester, as well as three aerial appliances and additional support vehicles, are currently in attendance.
"The incident involves a commercial building which was well alight when firefighters arrived at the scene. Firefighters are using hose reels and jets to extinguish the fire."
Incident Commander, Group Manager Ian Redfern, said: “In the early hours of the morning we were called to reports of a fire at a commercial building in Oldham.
“Fire crews arrived swiftly at the scene are working hard to prevent the fire spreading to neighbouring buildings. We expect to be dealing with the incident for some time.
“Road closures are currently in place. People are advised to avoid the area and residents should keep doors and windows shut.”
Transport for Manchester tweeted over the road closure: "A62 Huddersfield Road, Derker, Oldham reported closed at Cross St towards Lees ONLY.
"This is due to a commercial fire on Barry Street - @manchesterfire on scene. Local buses on diversion, check before you travel @FirstManchester @BusesOldham & Nexus Move #TfGMTraffic."
