Residents are being told to keep their windows and doors shut as fire crews tackle a huge blaze in Darwen.

Lancashire Telegraph: Images: Twitter @ant1188Images: Twitter @ant1188

At 2.16pm on Friday, 10 fire engines, including two from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, plus the aerial ladder platform, attended Kay Street in the town following reports that a large industrial unit was on fire.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Thick black smoke could be seen billowing from the unit, and is visible from Darwen Market Square.

Fire service personnel are asking people in the immediate vicinity to stay indoors.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Images from residents and people in the area show the smoke plume, which can be seen for miles.

It is thought the premise on fire is Forshaws Motorcycles, although this has not yet been confirmed by the fire service.

Lancashire Telegraph:

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "We currently have a large fire at a commercial premises in Darwen. 

"The building is approximately 75m by 30m and two storeys.

Lancashire Telegraph: Images: Twitter @ant1188Images: Twitter @ant1188

"Firefighters from both Lancashire and Greater Manchester are in attendance and more resources are on the way.

"The fire is thought to involve the building and some motorcycle parts which are well alight.

"Currently we have four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, one hose reel in use and one jet.

"There's a large smoke plume in the area and local residents nearby are advised to close any windows and doors as a precaution."

Lancashire Telegraph:

As of 3.20pm, all appliances remained in attendance at the incident, and the LFRS drone had also been called to attend to inspect the damage from above.