Scrapyard blaze

EXPLOSIONS could be heard in Ramsbottom following a huge blaze at a scrapyard.

More than 100 fire crews were called to the fire near Pimhole Road in Bury which broke out on Thursday evening, January 2.

The fire, which stretched up to 15 metres high, involved a number of scrap vehicles.

Firefighters worked overnight to bring it under control.

Neighbours near the site at were told to keep their windows and doors shut as crew battled the flames through the night.

Firefighters advised people living in the area to stay indoors and to keep their windows and doors shut due to the clouds of smoke.

Drivers travelling through the smoke are also being urged to keep their windows and air vents closed.

Rochdale Road, between Wash Lane and Heywood Street, were shut in both directions while firefighters continue to tackle the blaze.

On Thursday, January 2 Incident Commander Dave Baxter said:

“Our hardworking and dedicated firefighters have done a fantastic job at getting this blaze under control.

“A big thanks goes to all of our partner agencies who have worked alongside us throughout this incident.

“Significant progress has been made throughout the night and we’re now scaling back this incident.

“A large number of fire engines remain at the scene and are likely to be there for the rest of the day.”

Images taken from the scene showed a huge plume of smoke coming from the scrapyard.

Residents in the area said they could hear loud bangs and explosions throughout the night.

One man posted: “We live round the corner, massive explosion flat shook.”

On Twitter, Justine posted:

“Lots of explosions.... we are right next to it and looks much worse.”