Large fire engulfs mill in Greater Manchester

More than 50 firefighters were called to tackle a blaze in "extremely difficult conditions" at a mill in Greater Manchester.

Ten fire engines were sent to the scene in Stalybridge "alongside two aerial and numerous specialist appliances" as snow lay on the roads, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said.

Local people were told to stay clear of the area "as a precaution" and advised to keep their doors and windows closed "to prevent any smoke from entering their homes".

Crews battled through the night after being called at 11.43pm, and will "continue to fight the fire throughout the day".

In an update on Sunday morning, incident commander Billy Fenwick said the blaze was "surrounded", and nearby buildings "safe from harm".

Two aerial platforms remained in attendance "to put water on the fire from height and to help control the plume of smoke".

The service's fire investigation team will visit the scene to establish the cause.

"Our firefighters have done a fantastic job in extremely difficult conditions to fight this fire and stop it from spreading to nearby buildings," Mr Fenwick said.

"The fire is now surrounded, meaning we are confident nearby buildings are safe from harm.

"We will continue to fight the fire throughout the day so please do not travel in the immediate area."

There are road closures in Stalybridge around Clarence Street and Tame Street.