Wigan firefighters help tackle huge industrial unit blaze

The Wigan firefighters were called to scene of a large fire at Adamson Industrial Estate on Croft Road in Hyde on Saturday evening. The fire was so large that they were joined by colleagues from Bolton, Farnworth, Mossley and Sale.

A fire service statement said "Crews have worked diligently through the night to extinguish the blaze which at its height consumed three large buildings over a 300m x 200m footprint."

Station Manager Chris Hanson, in charge at the scene, said: “I cannot praise our firefighters enough – operating in the middle of the night in dangerous conditions they systematically worked to extinguish the fire and I am pleased to say we are now on top of the situation. There are just a few hot spots remaining and the crews that are still here are engaged in damping down the scene to prevent flames from reigniting.

“This has not been an easy fire to tackle. Spread over quite a large area and involving brick buildings three storeys high in places, of great concern was the large amount of chemicals stored at the scene given the industrial nature of some of the business involved. The three buildings have each suffered considerable damage and have collapsed in places, and further demolition may be required later today. The cause of the fire remains unknown and an investigation will begin soon.

“Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service will remain here in Hyde for the rest of today and nearby road closures remain in place, as does the closure of the local railway line though we expect that to reopen soon.

“I want to thank local people for their support and co-operation through the night – given there is still smoke and ash in the air, please continue to keep the doors and windows of your homes closed until informed otherwise.”

Firefighters from Bolton Central, Farnworth, Mossley, Sale and Wigan remain at the industrial estate. Local residents are requested to keep neighbouring roads clear of traffic to allow emergency service vehicles straightforward access. GMFRS would like to thank colleagues from Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and Tameside Council for their support overnight.