FIREFIGHTERS from Farnworth tackled a blaze at their former fire station last night.

The drill tower at the rear of the station on Albert Road, was badly damaged and officers fought to prevent the fire spreading to the main building.

Officers, who were alerted to the fire by a passer-by at 7.45pm, used aerial jets and a hydraulic platform to contain the fire.

The former fire station, which has not been used by the fire service since 1979, is currently disused.

A pile of tyres and wood was found at the bottom of the drill tower and it is believed the blaze could have been started deliberately. The police have been informed.

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