Greyhound pub fire: Deansgate cordoned off after explosion

The incident, which took place at the Greyhound pub on Deansgate just before 5am, saw its large front window smashed out onto the pavement. 

Six fire engines battled the blaze, with police, paramedics and Cadent gas engineers also in attendance.

No injuries have been reported.

The cause of the explosion is being investigated by the fire service and Cadent.

The Bolton News has seen a video timed at just before 5am, which shows the front window being smashed from the blast, which appears to have happened from inside the pub.

Deansgate was closed to traffic, though pedestrians were allowed to pass the street. 

Fire investigator entering the pub (Image: Phil Taylor)

Watch manager Phil Hindley at Bolton Central said: "Six fire engines from Bolton Central, Bolton North and Farnworth attended a fire at a pub on Deansgate. 

"Six breathing apparatus and multiple hoses were used on scene. No one was involved at the time of the incident. 

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"Police and ambulance attended and evacuated the area. 

"One fire engine remains on scene, with a fire investigation set to take place." 

Gas engineers drilling through the road (Image: Phil Taylor)

He added: "The whole window frames of the ground floor windows were knocked out and there is smoke and fire damage to the ground floor." 

For live updates on this incident, see our blog: LIVE: Town centre street cordoned off after pub fire

A fire investigator could be seen at around 10.30am, entering the pub and speaking with gas engineers. 

Cadent gas engineers have been working in the area, drilling holes in the ground and using gas detectors. 

The scene (Image: Phil Taylor)

Nick Jerman, head of customer operations for Cadent in the North West, said: “We are at the scene of this incident to support the emergency services and ensure everything related to gas is safe.  

“Incidents like this serve as an important reminder to call the national gas emergency service on 0800 111 999, day or night, if you ever smell gas.”