Cylinder explosion threat in fire

The fire generated a large amount of smoke - picture from Stuart Bradley

About 200 people have been evacuated and roads closed after a large fire at a pallet factory in Manchester.

Firefighters are at the building in Crossley Street, Gorton working on containing the blaze, but large plumes of smoke are billowing across the area.

People were moved due to the dangers from exploding gas cylinders. Others were told to close doors and windows.

Some local train services have been diverted and roads in the area have been closed to traffic.

Motorists have been asked to avoid the area where possible.

There are no reports of any injuries.

The cause of the fire, which broke out around 1530 BST, is not yet known.

A council spokeswoman said residents unable to stay with relatives or friends were being looked after at Belle Vue community centre.