An arson investigation is underway after firefighters tackled a large blaze at a derelict factory last night. Three Hyndburn fire crews were called to the building on Canal Street, Clayton-le-Moors, at around 6.45pm yesterday (Sunday).

Youths were seen running away from the 30-metre by 100-metre building which had smoke coming from it.

Watch manager Chris Archer said the fire had been alight for almost an hour before they received the call.

He said: "It was a large rubbish fire which started on the first floor and burned through to the ground floor. It was dangerous for us because there was two butane cylinders and an amount of chemicals inside the building.

"Eight firefighters went in and put it out using a hose reel. The people who start these rubbish fires deliberately are putting us at risk and tying up our resources."

Firefighters were there for around two hours. Police also attended the scene.