LIVE updates: Large number of firefighters battle fire in north Manchester with smoke seen for miles

Fire crews are battling a huge blaze at a derelict former social club in north Manchester this evening (Sunday). The blaze has broken out at the St Luke's Social Club building on Sulby Street off Lightbowne Road in Moston.

Smoke from the incident has been spotted several miles away in Oldham and Tameside.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said a 'large number' of firefighters were at the scene along with police officers.

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They said the flames had been contained to the building but that 12 nearby homes had been classed as unsafe due to the smoke and that crews were checking in on occupants.

Those living nearby are being asked to keep their doors and windows closed.

This is a breaking news story and we'll bring you the latest in the live blog below

The MEN now understands that there was not believed to be anybody inside the building when the fire broke out

Some nearby residents re reporting reduced water pressure due to the fire service hoses

Crews are still dousing water on the building with the area still said to be very smoky

Fire crews are still using hoses to extinguish the blaze here, with the area still smoky @MENnewsdesk pic.twitter.com/51Qpym05g9

Nicole says it has quieted down somewhat at the scene but that the firefighting efforts are continuing

The emergency services presence here in Moston has quietened down, but several fire engines remain on the scene. @MENnewsdesk pic.twitter.com/ecq8LxFKA5

Nicole has just done a live video update from the scene on our Facebook page which you can watch here

One local resident has told Nicole:

You could just see black smoke billowing. It was awful."

Another said:

“I’m very shocked,.