Homes evacuated as building catches fire

The disused building this morning as the fire service got the flames under control

FIVE homes were evacuated when fire broke out in a disused building in Chester Street, Freehold, this morning.

The area was cordoned off and residents watched as fire crews from Oldham, Chadderton and Hollins fought the flames.

One resident - still in her pyjamas - said: “We were evacuated as a precaution, but it looks like we will get back in our homes later today.”

The cause of the fire, which started at around 8.30, is not yet known.