Fire service tackle over 150 fires in civil disturbance

Baby World, Market Place, Middleton

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

The fire service has tackled over 150 fires across Greater Manchester throughout the night following sporadic and isolated pockets of civil disturbance.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue reported 155 fires across Manchester city centre and Salford, all of which have now been extinguished. Around 100 premises across the cities have been seriously damaged and a number of police vehicles were damaged.

Fire crews were also called to deal with fires in Heywood, Middleton and Oldham.

In Middleton four fire crews tackled a blaze at Baby World, Market Place. The fire, in the derelict building, was spread across three floors.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Incidents have been focussed mainly in Salford and Manchester City Centre. Fire Crews are working closely with colleagues from Greater Manchester Police to deal efficiently with fires that have been started deliberately ensuring the safety of fire crews and the public.”

The service said that activity was “coordinated well” with the majority of fires being brought quickly under control.

Crews faced very difficult working conditions and as a result of one localised disturbance one of fire engine has suffered some minor damage to a window.

There have been no reported injuries to any fire service personnel.