Pictures show wreckage of Radcliffe mill after fire as crews still at scene

The blaze broke out at the Milltown Street site just after 7.50pm on Saturday (September 27), with nine fire engines and various specialist appliances called to the scene.

These included aerial appliances and a high-volume pump.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed the fire was extinguished by Sunday evening, but firefighters remained on the scene dampening down hot spots.

An eyewitness said on Monday (September 29) that parts of the mill were still smoldering and pictures showed a large emergency service presence.

A firefighter called to extinguish the blaze was also “seriously injured” during the early stages of the emergency response.

They were treated by colleagues and the North West Ambulance Service at the scene before being taken to hospital, where they are currently being treated.

GMFRS has been contacted for an update on the condition of the firefighter and the latest on investigations into the incident.

However, the fire service said on Sunday that the firefighter, their family and fellow crew members will be given “all the support they need”.

Emergency services at the site of the Pioneer Mill site on Monday (September 29) following the fire.(Image: Phil Taylor)

GMFRS Deputy Chief Fire Officer Carlos Meakin added: “I’d like to thank our crews and emergency service colleagues for their professionalism, skill and bravery in responding to this extremely challenging incident, particularly the firefighters who worked through the night to bring the fire under control.

“A full investigation into the incident, undertaken jointly with the Fire Brigade’s Union (FBU), is underway to identify any learning and help ensure all our firefighters are as safe as possible when dealing with the significant risks we face in our roles.

“This incident highlights the exceptional challenges and dangers firefighters face when working to protect our communities.”

The Pioneer Mills complex has frequently been a cause of concern, having been at the centre of fires that have broken out at various points over recent years, and having been vacant for more than 20 years.

The Pioneer Mill site pictured on Monday (September 29) following the fire on Saturday.(Image: Phil Taylor)

The fire and rescue service says its crews arrived quickly at the scene and were supported by extra resources from Lancashire and Cheshire fire and rescue services.

Cllr Glyn Marsden, of Radcliffe West, had been to the scene several times now alongside his colleague Cllr Ken Simpson, of Radcliffe East.

They said their thoughts are with the injured firefighter.

Cllr Marsden said: “Obviously the preservation of life is always the priority at times like this.”

Turning to the wider issue of safety at the mill, he added: “We as Radcliffe councillors have every avenue that we can on this.

“We have regular briefings on this and it would seem that some hands may be tied, we don’t know, but we are absolutely adamant that this is something that must be addressed.

“It has been an issue for some time but when something horrific like this happens it expedites that.

“It’s gone beyond safety now, I think they’re looking at partial demolition.”

The eyewitness said an enhanced rescue unit arrived at the scene at about 11.25am on Monday.

They were told this is related to demolition plans for the building, with building control officers at the scene.

Bury Council has also been contacted for a comment.

Source – INDIA TV