Residents told to close doors and windows as black smoke billows from fire at Wigan scrapyard

Firefighters have spent several hours tackling a large blaze, which led to massive plumes of black smoke filling the sky.
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The fire, which started on Friday afternoon, is located in a scrapyard at the top of Moat House Street in Ince and involves a large quantity of tyres.

One witness told Wigan Today that it took hold "very, very quickly" due to the strong winds.

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Several fire engines rushed to the area, as well as police officers to manage traffic in the surrounding area.

Manchester Road was closed between Makerfield Way and Dobson Park Way while crews tackled the fire, though the eastbound lane has since reopened.

A fire service spokeman said: “Firefighters were called at 2.21pm today to reports of a fire at a scrapyard on Moat House Street, Ince.

“Five fire engines are at the scene. The incident is ongoing.

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“Please can people avoid the area and can nearby residents keep their windows and doors closed.”

Thick, black smoke from the fireThick, black smoke from the fire
Thick, black smoke from the fire

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The fire has produced a lot of smokeThe fire has produced a lot of smoke
The fire has produced a lot of smoke

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Firefighters are working to bring the fire under controlFirefighters are working to bring the fire under control
Firefighters are working to bring the fire under control

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