FIRE crews have been battling a huge blaze involving 200 tonnes of paper waste at an industrial estate.

The fire broke out at Kirkless Industrial Estate in Cale Lane, near Aspull, at around 6.55pm yesterday evening.

At its height some seven fire engines and dozens of crew were called in to tackle the flames, and a huge column of smoke could be seen for miles around.

Firefighters remain at the scene this morning and are working with site owners to dampen down any remaining pockets of fire, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed.

Staff from the industrial unit have been using heavy machinery to break down paper bales, while firefighters continue putting water onto hot spots.

A GMFRS said fire crews are expected to remain at the incident throughout the day.

Due to the large amounts of smoke produced by the fire, residents are being urged to keep their doors and windows closed and to avoid the area.