Large outbuildings fire at historic Wigan Hall

Fire crews have worked throughout the night following a large blaze at the former rectory Wigan Hall.
Wigan Hall, where two outbuildings have been badly damaged by fireWigan Hall, where two outbuildings have been badly damaged by fire
Wigan Hall, where two outbuildings have been badly damaged by fire

Two outbuildings at the historic landmark on New Market Street caught fire shortly after midnight on Friday.

Fire engines have remained at the scene all night and are still there this morning.

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Crews wearing breathing apparatus tackled the flames using jets and managed to prevent the blaze spreading to the main building.

Considerable damage has been caused to the outbuildings.

After the fire was brought under control firefighters had to remain vigilant due to the thick timber frames in the buildings on site, which can unpredictably allow flames to flare up again.

Watch manager Allan Dowell said: "There is extensive damage to the outbuildings. It looked like they were being renovated. If that's the case then now they will have to start from the beginning again."

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have been called to the scene and an investigation was due to begin on Friday.

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However, the fire service said at the moment the incident is not being treated as suspicious.

The grade-II listed Wigan Hall opened again in 2016 after comprehensive refurbishment as a base for former Wigan rugby league star Phil Clarke's business The Sports Office, which provides software to teams and franchises across the world.

Fire engines from Hindley, Atherton and Skelmersdale stations all attended the scene.

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