FIRE crews from Bolton were called to a large blaze at an industrial estate with black smoke visible for miles around.

The fire, at Wardley Industrial Estate, Worsley, is believed to have involved a large quantity of recycled computer parts in an industrial-sized container.

Crews from Bolton Central and Farnworth were among the eight that rushed to tackle the blaze, with large black smoke rising into the air, and reportedly visible from Walkden and Farnworth.

The A6 Manchester Road, between Swinton and Walkden, has now re-opened.

Motorway police also reported black smoke billowing across the M60, between junctions 13 and 14, and also smoke on the M61.

The fire also brought down a power line and the fire service was forced to close off nearby Holloway Drive while the incident was dealt with.

Residents were told to stay indoors and close their windows - 20 people were evacuated due to damage caused by the fallen power cable.

They were given temporary accommodation by the local emergency planning officer and have now been allowed to return to their homes.

The number of engines at the scene was scaled down to six and then two and an investigation will take place once the fire service has made the area safe.

The power lines fell between Moorside and Walkden with Electricity North West reporting seven homes without power in Walkden.

The train line between Manchester and Wigan also had to be closed but this was expected to re-open this morning. 

GMFRS group manager Paul Starling, who is at the incident, said: “We currently have four jets and two hand held hoses in operation to tackle the fire.

"The large smoke plume the recycled material produces is causing some local residents concern, but we would like to reassure you that we are dealing with the incident well.

"You can avoid any smoke by simply closing windows and doors and avoiding the area until further notice."

Police and the fire service have now launched a joint investigation to establish the cause of the fire.

It will determine whether the fire was caused by arson.