A FIRE swept through a derelict mill last night.

Firefighters from Bolton Central, Bolton North, Horwich and Farnworth tackled the blaze which broke out at 6.30pm in Brownlow Way, Halliwell.

An aerial appliance was also mobilised and crews brought the fire under control within 45 minutes.

At the height of the blaze 45 firefighters were at the scene. Roads were cordoned off and people from 20 nearby properties were evacuated at about 9pm for safety reasons. Council officers were working to find them shelter.

Bolton Central fire station commander Steve Parkinson said: “The fire was well alight when we arrived. Firefighters will be on the scene throughout the night.”

Nearby residents said flames could be seen from the top of the building.

Miten Patel, aged 24, whose house faces the mill, said: “I looked out of my bedroom window and saw a haze of orange. The mill has been disused for as long as I can remember and kids often play near it.”

An investigation into the fire will now be launched.