Huge blaze as smoke billows into air with 'number of cars' on fire in Rochdale

Large plumes of smoke have been spotted in Rochdale as residents are asked to keep windows closed

Residents in Rochdale have been warned to keep doors and windows shut this evening after plumes of smoke were seen coming from a scrapyard fire.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) are asking people to avoid Corporation Road as crews work to tackle the blaze.

The service said the fire involves 'a number of cars and a brick storage unit in a scrapyard'.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features

Corporation Road is partially blocked, according to online traffic reporting system Inrix.

A spokesperson for GMFRS said: “At approximately 7pm on Friday 25th August, firefighters were called to reports of a fire on Corporation Road, in Rochdale.

“Five fire engines from Rochdale, Heywood, Littleborough and Chadderton stations quickly attended the scene. The fire involves a number of cars and a brick storage unit in a scrapyard. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using two hose reels to extinguish the fire.

“People living nearby are asked to keep their windows and doors shut, and avoid the area if possible. Fire crews remain at the scene at this time.”

Follow our live blog below for updates

Our reporter Damon is now on the scene in Rochdale.

A spokesperson for GMFRS said: “At approximately 7pm on Friday 25th August, firefighters were called to reports of a fire on Corporation Road, in Rochdale.

“Five fire engines from Rochdale, Heywood, Littleborough and Chadderton stations quickly attended the scene. The fire involves a number of cars and a brick storage unit in a scrapyard. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using two hose reels to extinguish the fire.

“People living nearby are asked to keep their windows and doors shut, and avoid the area if possible. Fire crews remain at the scene at this time.”