Residents told to stay away after underground fire

Residents have been told to stay away after an underground fire.

The fire has happened in a rural area in Higher Folds, Leigh and crews are expected to be dealing with the blaze throughout the day.

Wigan Council said it will be erecting fencing to protect residents and said the incident is an "ongoing changing situation".

The council tweeted: "In response to a small underground fire at the Leigh Reclamation Land Holding, Wigan Council will be erecting fencing to protect residents. It is an ongoing changing situation and Wigan Council is working closely with both Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue and PHE."

"There are no residential properties in close vicinity of the site but an officer from the fire service will be monitoring the area frequently. We would advise that everyone keeps away as a precaution for their own safety.

Keiron Reid, watch manager at Leigh fire station, said crews will be making regular checks of the area throughout the day.

He said: "This is a small underground fire and crews will be making regular checks throughout they day.

"The fire has happened in Higher Folds, Leigh in a rural area.

"We will be ploughing water on the affected area and this is an ongoing incident.

"The area has been fenced off for the safety of residents."