DRIVERS are being warned to expect delays as firefighters battle a grass fire just off A56.

Eight fire engines are at the scene battling the blaze which is 100 metres by 100 metres and located just off the A56 southbound in Rising Bridge.

Firefighters were first called at around 3.20pm. 

Police closed the A56 from junction 8 southbound heading towards Haslingden at around 6pm while firefighters deal with the incident.

The road had previously been reduced to one lane from junction eight of the M65 while firefighters dealt with the fire and it is likely to remain that way for the rest of the evening.

A police spokesman said:"It will be like this for the rest of the evening.

"If travelling allow extra time on your journey."

Firefighters also warned people in the area to take care if they are travelling.