FIREFIGHTERS remain at Manchester’s Christie Hospital this morning after working throughout the night to tackle a large fire in the roof of an important cancer research building.

A large number of crew from across the county have been involved in complex firefighting operations overnight and for almost 24 hours, after fire broke out in the Paterson Building in Wilmslow Road, Withington, at 10.30am yesterday.

Overnight, a number of relief crews have been in attendance in shifts as firefighters wearing breathing apparatus continue to fight pockets of fire in the roof.

In addition, crew working with officers from the Christie itself have salvaged a number of high value items in a bid to preserve as much work from the building as possible.

An initial fire investigation has commenced overnight as specialist officers were able to access parts of the building, but no cause has yet been identified and a team of investigators are expected to begin a more detailed search at lunchtime today.

Six fire engines and two aerial appliances remain at the scene actively searching for pockets of fire and heat spots. The Service is expecting to remain at The Christie for some days.