Manchester fire: Huge blaze rips through industrial site sending giant smoke cloud billowing across homes

FIRE crews are battling a massive blaze at an industrial estate in Manchester.

Crews raced to the scene in the Miles Platting area of the city during the early hours of the morning.

Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service

The scene this morning in Miles Platting, Manchester[/caption]

Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service

Drivers have been urged to avoid the area[/caption]

Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service

The fire appears to have caused extensive damage so far[/caption]

The blaze has sent up large plumes of black smoke and drivers have been warned to avoid the area, which is not far from Manchester City’s stadium.

Eight engines were sent to the scene of the fire involves two detached industrial buildings.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 3.40am on Saturday 17 June, fire crews were called to reports of a fire on Clifton Street, Manchester.

“Firefighters have made good progress extinguishing the fire and remain at the scene.

“Hulme Hall Lane (A6010) remains closed between Oldham Road (A62) and Bradford Road. People are asked to avoid the area where possible.”