AROUND 60 firefighters are tackling a blaze on Winter Hill.

A fire service spokesman said 12 fire engines, including some from Manchester, were called to the moorlands around 3.20pm.

The fire is thought to be roughly one kilometre square in size.

The fire can be seen as far away as Wigan and South Ribble, with smoke seen rising near the hill's radio mast.

A Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "15 fire engines from Lancashire and Manchester are currently in attendance at a grass fire on moorland at Winter Hill.

"The area affected is approximately 1km square in size.

"Firefighters are tackling the fire from three locations using specialist wildfire fighting equipment plus hose reels and beaters.

"Mountain rescue officers and United Utilities are assisting at the incident.

"There is no immediate risk to livestock, domestic properties or infrastructure.

"However, please keep windows and doors closed if you are close to the smoke.

"With hot weather expected for the next few days please take extra care when out in the countryside or on the moors and follow our advice."

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Our crews are now dealing with a fire up on Winter Hill Along with the ongoing moorland fires in Tameside, please be aware we are massively busy.

"Please keep yourselves safe and only ring us in an emergency."