LIVE: 'Loud bang' heard and 'wall of flames' seen as 'huge' fire breaks out - latest updates

A 'loud bang' was heard and a 'wall of flames' seen as a fire broke out in Prestwich. A road has been taped off by emergency services this evening (August 24).

A blaze is understood to have broken out on Hilton Crescent, near Bury New Road, with a number of police vans, ambulances and fire engines at the scene.

Pictures shared on social media show huge clouds of smoke billowing into the air. Fire crews are battling the flames.

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A resident said they heard a 'loud bang' before seeing a 'wall of flames'. Residents have had their water supply turned off.

Greater Manchester Police and the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have been contacted for information.

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This is a breaking incident. Updates to follow.

The M.E.N understands a telephone cable had to be cut in order for the fire service's ladder to reach part of the building to put the fire out.

A GMFRS spokesperson said: “At around 5:30pm today (Thursday, 24th August), firefighters were called to reports of a fire at a residential property on Hilton Crescent in Prestwich.

“Four fire engines from Manchester Central, Bury, Salford and Broughton fire stations, along with the aerial appliance from Manchester Central fire station quickly arrived at the scene. Firefighters used six breathing apparatus and three hose reels to extinguish the fire.

“Two occupants had self-rescued before firefighters arrived and were treated at the scene by paramedics from the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) before being conveyed to hospital. An occupant from a neighbouring property was also treated by NWAS at the