Residents in Wigan have been told to keep their windows and doors shut after a huge fire broke out at a derelict restaurant. Nine fire engines were scrambled to the scene in the Poolstock area of the town after the alarm was raised at around 4:30pm this evening.
It took hold in the derelict building that was previously the Shanghai Palace restaurant but which is said to have now stood empty for several years.
Firefighters donned breathing apparatus whilst crews also used an aerial appliance to douse water on the building from above.
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Those living nearby are being advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke being emitted from the blaze, with some saying the plumes were visible several miles away.
Poolstock remains closed in both directions between Pool Street and the A49 Westwood whilst crews continue to deal with the aftermath of the incident.
People have been asked to avoid the area for the time being after large queues built up around the closure rush hour.
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At 4.30pm this afternoon, Monday October 24, firefighters were called to reports of fire at a building on Poolstock, Wigan.
“Nine fire engines were quickly mobilised to the incident, including an aerial appliance and the Scorpion specialist appliance from Salford. Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to swiftly extinguish the fire.
“Residents living nearby are being advised to keep their doors and windows closed and to avoid the area if possible as there are road closures in place.”
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