Maple Mill Blaze in Hathershaw Oldham, Lancashire.. UK

Blaze wrecks kitchen trader's mill  April 21, 2009 FIREFIGHTERS were tackling a huge blaze at a mill owned by kitchen trader Vance Miller. A number of homes in the Cardwell Street area of Hathershaw, Oldham, have been evacuated as a precaution. Police and fire crews were called to the mill on Groby Street, where businessman Mr Miller runs his controversial kitchen firm, at around 5.30pm on Tuesday. A fire service spokesman said the mill building was well alight with potentially explosive gas cylinders inside. A number of roads were sealed off as a result and a cordon was put in place around Cardwell Street, Edith Street and Dowry Street. The cause of the blaze is being investigated. Fire service spokesman Paul Duggan said: "The mill measures around 60 by 40 metres and is six floors in total. The fire is thought to have started in a diesel generator, then spread to some wooden pallets and propane cylinders nearby, some of which have exploded as a result. "There were people inside the mill at the time but there are no reported injuries or any reports of anyone missing. "There are 60 fire fighters in attendance and the flames are being fought using an aerial appliance. There will be a full investigation into the cause." Workers were gathered outside and a roll call was taking place. The mill is listed as a 'multi-occupancy' building but the fire service said it was primarily used for Mr Miller's kitchen manufacturing business. Mr Miller, 43, of Ramsbottom, has become a millionaire through this kitchen firm but his business practices have attracted controversy.