A raging inferno has torn through a derelict school overnight in Bolton.
Around 25 firefighters battled the flames at the former Clarendon Primary building until late into the night.
Two aerial appliances also attended the scene and poured water on the fire from above.
Emergency fire crews were called to the scene at 6pm, standing in for striking firefighters.
As they arrived smoke was seen rising from the roof with slates and tiles falling off.
RAGING FIRE: Around 25 emergency fire crews battled the blaze through the night
Station Manager Phil Nelson said at the time of the incident: “It’s a large and complex building and firefighters are working hard to extinguish the fire.
“It’s a three-storey building and it is unsafe. There is also smoke in the area and because it is a warm night it is lingering, so I’d encourage people to stay away and to keep their doors and windows shut.”
Nearby residents were told to keep their doors and windows shut overnight due to the volume of smoke coming from the building.
Firefighters continue to tackle fire at former Clarendon School, Bolton. Lots of smoke in area so please keep doors /windows shut
— Manchester Fire (@manchesterfire) July 21, 2014
The school, which was built in 1886, was closed earlier this year after a new site opened nearby.
It is not yet known what caused the fire.
Images courtesy of GMFRS, with thanks
