Middleton fire LIVE updates as smoke fills air after crews battle flames overnight

Firefighters remain at the scene of a huge fire at a Middleton storage unit. Crews descended on Old Hall Street at around 4.50pm yesterday (June 18), with eight fire engines sent to the scene alongside specialist units.

The Manchester Evening News understands the blaze involved lithium ion batteries. Crews worked throughout the night to control the fire and remain at the scene this morning, with six fire engines in place alongside specialist resources.

People living close to the scene have been urged to keep their windows and doors closed, with smoke continuing to emerge from the building.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said:“Crews have worked hard overnight to contain the fire at the commercial premises on Old Hall Street, Middleton.

“Six fire engines, the aerial unit and scorpion remain in attendance to tackle pockets of fire and make the building safe in challenging conditions.

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"Road closures remain in place with nearby residents advised to keep their doors and windows shut."

In an update shared on X, the fire service said that crews are 'working hard in challenging conditions'.

A spokesperson for Storage World, the company which runs the unit, said: "Our Middleton store has suffered a serious fire. Authorities are currently in attendance and we will be contacting customers as soon as the situation has settled and we can assess the damage. This will be no later than Friday afternoon.

"Please do not contact us directly but wait for us to communicate with you, as this will allow us to manage the current situation and ensure all customers are given accurate information as soon as possible.

"More information will also