A massive fire has erupted in a UK town, with the public urged to avoid the area, and keep their windows and doors shut. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene at around 6am on Sunday morning.

The huge fire is understood to be at Lodge Mill on Townley Street, near its junction with Old Hall Street. Surrounding roads have been closed by police. In a statement posted to social media, the fire service said: “Crews are tackling a large fire on Townley Street in Middleton, near the town centre. Residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed and to avoid the area.” Greater Manchester Police, writing on Facebook, said: “Emergency services are currently responding to a fire at a mill on Old Hall Street, Middleton. Residents in the surrounding area are advised to keep windows and doors closed while the incident is being brought under control. Please avoid the area as road closures are in place and will remain until it is safe to reopen.”

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