A DENSE cloud of black smoke shrouded Bury on Tuesday night after arsonists torched two derelict mills.

Fire bugs struck shortly after 6pm when they set fire to a quantity of HGV tyres stored in the former Parker Walker factory at Crostons Road.

The burning rubber produced the thick pall of smoke which hovered over the area, blocking out day light, for more than an hour as 30 firefighters tackled the blaze.

Less than two hours later, arsonists struck again when they started a blaze at another disused factory this time in Park Street. Fire crews from neighbouring towns were called into to help deal with the second attack.

A Bury fire chief this week blasted the arsonists who are not only putting lives and property at risk but who are also destroying the environment.

Station Officer Pete Seddon said: "Fires like those on Tuesday have a knock on effect. Black smoke poured from the buildings resulting in a thick mist hanging over the area for several hours.

"Also, thousands of gallons of water are pumped on to the flames and this then pours into the nearby river. The contaminated air and water are not good for the environment."

Bury police have launched an appeal for witnesses who may have seen the arsonists at work.