FIFTEEN firefighters tackled a fierce blaze which swept through the first floor and roof of a derelict nightclub.

Officers battled for an hour to bring the fire at the former Benny's nightclub and Fusion disco in Warthfold Road, Radcliffe, under control.

Arson is suspected as several fires were started inside the building.

The blaze broke out at 4.30pm on Thursday on the first floor and flames spread to the roof which sustained 75 per cent damage.

Inside the building, the fire engulfed old bench seating on the first floor and destroyed other discarded materials.

Fire crews from Bury, Whitefield and Farnworth were at the scene for more than two hours and an engine remained at the building overnight.

Sub officer Steve Simpson, of Whitefield fire station, said: "When we arrived at the building, the first floor was well alight. The fire involved the structure and the remnants of seating. Flames also spread to the roof."

Officers also had problems finding a proper water supply. A special brigade four-wheel drive machine with smaller pumps was deployed at the scene.

For many years, the building was a popular nightspot for revellers. Originally a farmhouse, it subsequently became Benny's nightclub and later Fusion disco.

Since its closure, the building has suffered a spate of arson attacks.

Last month, Bury Council rejected an application to partly demolish and convert the premises into eight dwellings.