1 September 2010 Last updated at 07:25 ET

Recycling plant fire in Bolton 'was arson'

Plastic waste stored in a warehouse was set alight

A fire at a recycling plant in Greater Manchester is being treated as arson.

Fire crews were called to Armstrongs Environmental Services in Mansell Way, Horwich, at 0205 BST on Monday.

Police believe someone set light to hundreds of tonnes of plastic waste in a storage warehouse sometime between 2300 BST on Monday and 0215 on Tuesday.

Armstrongs are offering a £10,000 reward to anyone who can provide information leading to the prosecution of the person or persons involved.

A statement from the company said: "This is now the third time Armstrongs have been targeted in this way.

"We are therefore requesting the help and assistance of the local residents to stop this person or persons before someone gets hurt or, even worse, killed."

'Malicious' fire

At its height, more than 40 firefighters tackled the flames and several roads were closed to allow the emergency services to reach the scene.

Chorley New Road between Ramsbottom Road and Victoria Road remains closed and motorists are being advised to avoid the area.

Det Con Wayne Hagan, of Bolton CID, said: "This fire is being treated as malicious and we are keen for anyone with information to get in touch.

"It has caused a lot of disruption locally and caused massive inconvenience for residents and the firm itself.

"I want to reassure the community that we are doing all we can to catch the perpetrators."

Anyone with information is urged to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Armstrongs have operated in the waste management and recycling industry since 1988 and have more than 150 employees.