Images and video show devastating scale of fire at primary school

Dramatic images and video show the devastating scale of a fire at a primary school.

As reported in the Manchester Evening News, 10 fire crews raced to the scene in the Great Lever area of Bolton earlier this morning, Thursday.

The fire broke out at SS Simon and Jude CE Primary School on Newport Road, leaving part of the school's roof badly damaged. It's understood there were people inside the school at the time but there are no reports of any injuries.

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It's also believed the school's classrooms escaped damage by fire but have been left badly smoke-logged. Fire crews descended on the primary school from 8.30am after reports the roof was on fire.

Greater Manchester Police and the North West Ambulance Service were also at the scene. Crews using hose reels doused the flames and as of Thursday afternoon, it's understood the blaze had been brought largely under control.

It's understood the fire broke out in the roof space of the school hall.

Images and video footage from the scene showed huge plumes of thick black smoke billowing out into the sky visible for miles around.

Firefighters were pictured stood on the roof of the school building dousing the flames. Several streets remain cordoned off.

In an update, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: "Firefighters are currently working hard to tackle a significant fire at a primary school on Newport Road, Bolton.

"Please avoid the area and close windows and doors if you live nearby Roads closures are in place."

A spokesperson for GMFRS said: "At 8.30am on Thursday 17 August, fire crews were called to reports of a fire at a school on Newport Road, Bolton.

"Ten fire engines