Fire engulfs Middleton hotel as people 'run for their lives'

At approximately 12.15am today (Sunday, September 15), emergency services were called to reports of a fire at the premises on Market Place in Middleton.

Residents saw The Assheton Arms Hotel was "up in flames" and said the smoke was "awful" around the area.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox by signing up to The Oldham Times’ morning and evening newsletters as well as our breaking news alerts 

The Assheton Arms in Middleton (Image: Google Maps)

The blaze prompted a huge emergency services response, with eight fire engines called to the scene alongside the ambulance service and Greater Manchester Police.

A woman who called the fire service said: "I was advised to leave the area, so we did.

"I'd say it was crazy [the fire].

"There were people clearly in distress.

"There were people literally running out of there for their lives."

Greater Manchester Police said a man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of arson and assault in connection with the fire.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed there were casualties and one injured person was taken to hospital.

The fire service said: "Shortly before 12:15am this morning (15 September 2024), eight fire engines from across Greater Manchester were called to the scene of a fire at a commercial building on Market Place, Middleton.

“Crews arrived quickly and worked overnight to extinguish the fire.

"Firefighters used six breathing apparatus, three hose reels, a thermal imaging camera and two nine-metre ladders.

“All casualties were transferred into the care of North West Ambulance Service and one casualty has been conveyed to hospital.

"Crews remain in attendance at this time to monitor the premises and ensure the area is safe.”

The North West Ambulance Service has been contacted for comment.

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk