Arson probe after inferno at derelict mill

A HUGE fire that tore through a mill in Trafford is being treated as arson by cops.

- TODD FITZGERALD

Greater Manchester Police said an investigation continues, but it is suspected the blaze was deliberately started.

Dozens of firefighters were called to tackle the fire at Empress Mill in Old Trafford early yesterday morning. Huge quantities of smoke billowed into the surrounding neighbourhood.

At its height, 10 crews of firefighters were at the scene, with images showing them dousing the flames with water on aerial platforms using specialist equipment.

Residents in the area were told to stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed as smoke filled the air.

One man who lives nearby said: "The lights woke me up early this morning, about half five. I looked out of my window and I could just see all the smoke. There was so much of it."

No injuries have been reported, police said.