Manchester Road recovery operation after lorry overturns

Emergency services were called to Manchester Road, near the Bolton retail estate heading towards the town centre, at around 7.10pm on June 5.

Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) attended after the HGV rolled onto its side while turning onto Trinity Street.

Fire crews in attendance at the scene yesterday (Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

The incident led to the closure of Manchester Road inbound towards the town centre, with motorists urged to avoid the area and find alternative routes while emergency crews worked at the scene.

Firefighters used specialist equipment and oil absorbent pads to deal with a diesel spillage caused by the crash.

A spokesperson for GMFRS said: “At around 7.10pm this evening (Friday 5 June), two fire engines from Bolton Central station, the enhanced rescue unit from Leigh station and the environmental protection unit from Bury station attended an incident involving a lorry falling on its side while turning a corner on Manchester Road, Bolton.

“Crews arrived quickly and used oil absorbent pads and other specialist equipment to help clear the diesel spillage.

“Firefighters departed after roughly an hour in attendance.”

(Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

Witnesses at the scene reported a strong smell of diesel in the air as emergency services secured the area.

The lorry, which was carrying plasterboard, remained on its side for several hours while specialist recovery teams were brought in.

Witnesses said multiple heavy recovery vehicles were required due to the complexity of the operation.

The road was closed for several hours. (Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

One witness said: “One truck that can lift 75 tonnes is here. Another two trucks are on their way as it will be a complicated lift.”

Recovery work continued throughout the evening, with airbags placed beneath the trailer to assist in lifting the vehicle safely.

A lengthy recovery by Mansfield Group using heavy recovery vehicles. (Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

There has been no confirmation of any injuries and the cause of the collision has not been disclosed.

Manchester Road remained closed late into the evening while recovery teams worked to remove the overturned lorry.

The road is now open after recovery operations had been completed.