Oldham fire LIVE: Smoke billows and 'loud bang' heard - updates

Thick plumes of smoke can be seen across parts of Oldham as a large fire has broken out at a scrap yard.

Firefighters are in attendance on Mossdown Road, in Royton, this morning (August 27).

It's understood a blaze has broken out at a scrap yard in the area.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) says it was called out to the scene at around 8.25am.

Never miss a story with the MEN's daily Catch Up newsletter - get it in your inbox by signing up here

Eight fire engines are currently in attendance.

Residents in the surrounding area have reported seeing heavy plumes of smoke.

A witness told the Manchester Evening News: "It’s the scrap yard on Mossdown Road, fire engines are here now.

"I heard a loud bang before. I can hear fire engines going on the road."

Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE

A GMFRS spokesperson said: "At shortly before 8.25am on Wednesday eight fire engines from GMFRS were called to a fire involving a commercial waste premises on Mossdown Road, Royton.

"Firefighters are working hard to extinguish the fire and remain in attendance."

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has issued an update on the fire.

A spokesperson said:

"Firefighters continue to work hard alongside partners to tackle a fire involving a building at a commercial waste premises in Royton.

"Specialist appliances, including the Scorpion and Turntable Ladder, are in attendance with some surrounding roads closed."

Damage is now being assessed at the scrap yard where the fire broke out.

The current scene. The roof is still smoking, there are drones up assessing the damage, and police continue to direct traffic along Higgenshaw Lane and