Manchester fire in pictures: Firefighters battle Ardwick factory blaze
A FEROCIOUS fire has broken out in Manchester, sending thick plumes of smoke over the city centre.
Manchester fire: Blaze breaks out at Ardwick knitwear factory
Flames began to rip through Imperial Knitwear factory in Ardwick, just a mile from the city centre, at around 7pm.
The factory's roof is reported to have collapsed and eyewitnesses have reported hearing three explosions.
More than 50 firefighters are battling the blaze.
Dramatic photos shared on social media show a column of thick black smoke rising into over the skyline.
While others show sizeable yellow flames licking the surrounding area.
Avoid the area
Passers-by have reported the fire is spreading and the smoke is turning a darker colour.
Manchester Fire tweeted: "Over 50 firefighters are tackling a fire at a commercial knitwear building on Hyde Road in #Ardwick.
"Blaze currently 50x50metres. Firefighters working hard to stop it spreading to two neighbouring buildings. Avoid the area."
The fire service said earlier: "We currently have eight fire engines from across Manchester, Salford and Stockport tackling a blaze on Hyde Road in #Ardwick.
"Please avoid the area and keep windows and doors shut. More info when we have it from the scene - our firefighters are working hard."
It has been reported the cordon around the scene is being extended and that more fire engines are arriving at the scene.
Crews are also said to be examining the building next door.