Manchester fire LIVE: Huge blaze erupts at Hotspur Press building with nearby flats evacuated - updates

A huge fire has erupted in Manchester city centre this evening (June 23) with plumes of smoke seen covering streets and train tracks.

A building, which witnesses have said is the now-derelict Hotspur Press building beside Oxford Road station, has erupted into flames with thick smoke clouds seen for miles over the city centre.

Emergency services are at the scene currently tackling the huge blaze.

Images from across the region show plumes of smoke in the sky, with videos showing firefighters still tackling the ongoing fire.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said, “Firefighters are currently tackling a large fire at the derelict Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street in Manchester.

“An evacuation of the neighbouring apartment buildings is taking place. The public are advised to stay away from the area while crews continue to tackle the fire.”

Due to the major incident, all lines are blocked at Oxford Road station with passengers evacuated.

Services running through the station may be delayed or cancelled, National Rail announced tonight, with disruption expected for most of the evening.

There are also road closures in place, with the A34 Oxford Street shut in both directions between Charles Street and B6469 Whitworth Street. Nearby local roads are also closed, including Whitworth Street in both directions between A5103 Albion Street and A34 Oxford Street.

This is a breaking incident. Updates to follow below.

Nearby flats have been evacuated with surrounding streets cordoned off amid ongoing blaze.

The fire service will provide further updates on the rapidly evolving situation tonight but have confirmed that neighbouring apartment blocks are currently being evacuated.

A spokesperson