Mill fire being treated as arson

Photo: Greg Smith

Proofings factory ablaze

Police are appealing for witnesses after an arson at a mill in Littleborough on Saturday (24 March).

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/117443/factory-in-littleborough-on-fire

The fire, at the former Proofings on Hare Hill Road, was brought under control by the fire service, with 12 nearby residents evacuated as a precaution during the incident and thankfully, no one was injured.

Several teenagers were seen leaving the mill at around 4.10pm that day and police would like to speak to them in connection with the fire.

Officers investigating the fire are treating it as arson and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Sergeant Richard Price of GMP’s Rochdale borough, said: “The scale of the fire was significant and it is astounding that no one was injured in the blaze.

“The local community were disrupted by this incident and I’m hoping that someone in the crowd knows something about how the fire started.

“If you have any detail, no matter how small, that you think could help with our investigation, please share this with us as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 8549 or 101, quoting incident number 1669 of 24/03/18. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.