A major incident was declared after more than 120 firefighters were called to tackle a huge fire at a three-storey warehouse in Manchester.

The blaze swept through the building in Holland Street, Denton, on Sunday afternoon, causing a vast plume of black smoke to spread across the nearby M67 motorway and much of the neighbouring community.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said it had originated in the warehouse building, before quickly spreading to adjoining units.

Some 25 fire appliances were at the scene, with firefighters deploying ground jets to pump water on to the blaze as well as using three aerial appliances to tackle it from above.

Nearby buildings were evacuated and the M67 was closed between junctions one and two, with motorists urged to take extra care and residents told to keep their doors and windows closed.

Members of the public were also asked to avoid the area.

GMFRS area manager Stewart Forshaw, who is in charge of the incident, said: “The first crews on scene were met with a well-developed fire and more support was quickly mobilised to deal with the blaze.

“The incident is causing a large smoke plume that is affecting the local community and can be seen across the county. I would ask those who are affected by the smoke to keep their doors and windows closed and to avoid the area.

“It is likely our firefighters will be here throughout the evening and into tomorrow as we continue to deal with this incident.”

Greater Manchester Police declared the major incident after its officers were called at around 1.15pm.

Superintendent Natalie Dixon said: “We currently have an evacuation procedure in place to ensure all those in the vicinity of the fire are kept safe.

“All those in buildings required to evacuate will be contacted by police and we ask that no-one leaves their house unless otherwise instructed.

“We are urging all those in the local area to keep their doors and windows closed to ensure they are better protected from any smoke inhalation.

“We are also asking the public to avoid the area where possible.”

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