FIREFIGHTERS are tackling are tackling a large fire at a primary school.

Crews are currently at the scene of Westleigh Methodist Primary School, in Westleigh Lane in Leigh .

The fire involves the main building of the primary school and all upper levels were well alight.

People are being urged to avoid the area and ensure that all windows and doors are closed.

The fire has been contained to the main hall of the single storey school and crews are currently assessing the scene. 

Officer in charge, station manager Roberts said: “Thanks to the hard work of our crews the main fire has now been extinguished and thankfully the fire has been contained to the main hall. We are continuing to extinguish fire pockets within the building from two sectors.

“There is no further spread to other buildings at the school but its likely crews will be in attendance throughout the day.

“Cordons are place, so please avoid the area if possible. Currently Westleigh Lane to Nell Pan Lane and Sovereign Fold are closed and are expected to be for a number of hours.”

Four fire engines from Hindley, Atherton, Wigan and Leigh, along with the hydraulic platform from Bolton are at the scene.

Crews were called at 10.50am to the fire.