Firefighter seriously injured as crews battle major blaze at Radcliffe’s Pioneer Mill

Sunday, 28 September 2025 20:38

By David Murphy

Emergency services worked through the night as part of a large-scale response to a devastating fire in Radcliffe.

A firefighter has been seriously injured after part of a commercial building collapsed during a major blaze in Radcliffe on Saturday night.

Nine fire engines and specialist equipment were scrambled to Pioneer Mill on Milltown Street shortly after 7.50pm on 27 September, as flames tore through the site. Crews from across Greater Manchester were joined by colleagues from Lancashire and Cheshire to bring the fire under control.

Despite the scale of the incident, the fire was extinguished by morning. Firefighters remain at the scene, damping down hot spots and working with partner agencies to ensure the area is safe.

The injured firefighter was treated at the scene by emergency responders before being taken to hospital. They are currently receiving treatment, and no further details about their condition have been released.

Carlos Meakin, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, praised the professionalism and bravery of all those involved.

“This was an extremely challenging incident, and I want to thank our crews and emergency service colleagues for their skill and dedication,”

“Our thoughts are with the injured firefighter, their family and crewmates. We will continue to provide all the support they need at this difficult time.”

He added that a full joint investigation with the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is now underway to examine the circumstances of the collapse and identify any lessons to be learned.

“This incident highlights the very real risks that our firefighters face every time they respond to protect the public,”

Emergency services, including Greater Manchester Police, Bury Council and the Environment Agency, are continuing to monitor the site, with efforts focused on public safety and environmental protection.

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