Firefighters battle huge blaze at derelict mill near beauty spot

As families enjoyed a Bank Holiday stroll around Dovestone Reservoir, a cloud of thick black smoke billowed across the water. In the distance, a series of loud bangs rang out.

Half a mile away, a huge fire was burning away at a derelict mill. Firefighters were called to the blaze at the former Robert Fletcher paper mill in Greenfield, Saddleworth, at about 3.45pm today (Monday).

Images showed flames soaring from a section of the disused mill, which has been closed for several years.

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As smoke filled the skies, people were urged to avoid the area and keep their windows closed. Fire crews continued to battle the blaze late into the evening.

Police were also pictured at the scene, which is located near Chew Brook and Bank Lane, off Holmfirth Road.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "At around 3.45pm on Monday 26 August, fire crews were called to reports of a fire at a derelict industrial building off Holmfirth Road, Saddleworth.

"Five fire engines from Oldham, Chadderton, Stalybridge, Hollins, Ashton and Hyde stations, as well as a turntable ladder and the drone unit, were quickly mobilised to the incident.

"Firefighters used two jets to extinguish the fire. Crews remain in attendance dampening down the remaining hotspots."