FIREFIGHTERS have been tackling a large fire at a derelict Stretford care home for more than 24 hours.


The blaze first broke out at the four storey building, on Urmston Lane, at around 9am yesterday, December 16.


Crews from Stretford, Sale, Salford, Eccles and Gorton fire stations have been on the scene at various times, managing to contain the fire to the building itself.


Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus initially entered the building with hose reels, but had to withdraw due to the unsafe nature of the building.


Water jets have now been stationed around the former care home, of which all four floors and the basement are currently on fire.


Urmston Lane is presently closed in both directions between Humphrey Lane and Cressingam Road – one lane was opened to eastbound traffic last night, but police made the decision to close both lanes again this morning.


More to follow.