A BLAZE ripped through this shopping centre in Leigh this morning, wiping out businesses and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

More than 60 firefighters were called to the Boulevard, on Bradshawgate, at 1am today and spent the entire morning trying to dampen the flames.

Some traders turned up in the middle of the night and were in tears as their livelihoods were destroyed.

Crews were still putting out the fire at 8am today.

The emergency services were called to the scene after a police officer viewing the CCtv cameras spotted smoke on Bradshawgate.

Worried members of the public also dialled 999 saying Leigh town centre was filling up with smoke.

A crew from Leigh quickly arrived at the scene, but blaze had already taken hold and was destroying the building.

At its height, eight crews from Wigan, Atherton, Hindley, Bolton and Farnworth fought against the flames. It took four hours to get under control.

Station Officer Steve Birchall said it was the worst fire Leigh had suffered in many years.

"It was a very intense blaze. Some of my men went in with breathing apparatus, but at one point I had to withdraw them, because it was too dangerous.

"Some of the traders, including some of the girls from the cafe, were in tears. They were very upset about it, but all we could do was get on with our job."

It is believed around 10 businesses operate in the Boulevard, including a newsagents, cafe, and clothes shops.

The cause of the fire will be investigated today.