Wheelie bins torched in series of fires on estate

The incident happened on Dorning Street in the Shakerley area of Tyldesley and surrounding roads.

The bins set alight were in the back alleys between the rows of houses.

Neighbours who saw the fire crews putting out the flames directed them to where more bins had been torched.

A number of trees also caught fire and there was damage to one property's fence and gate.

The fire service was called at around 3.30am on Sunday and crews were in the area dealing with the fires for around an hour and a half.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have been informed.

Fire crews said the incident tied up resources and will now require a clear-up by the authorities at a time when they are also dealing with the consequences of the coronavirus.

They also gave some fire prevention advice to residents.

Firefighter Lloyd Watson from Atherton fire station said: "We would go to one bin on fire and then neighbours would flag us down saying theirs had been set alight as well. It was like a domino effect.

"This is very inconvenient for the people whose bins they are but also to the council, which will have to come and try to scrape up all the melted plastic and replace the damaged bins. There's also the damage to property in this incident.

"If possible people should put their bins out on the morning they are due to be emptied."

Anyone with information about this incident should ring GMP on 101 or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.