Several animals have died after a fire at Manchester Dogs' Home.

Over 20 firefighters are battling the blaze at the animal centre on Mossbrook Road in Harpurhey.

Police are also at the scene. Although they have been unable to access the scene, it is understood they are investigating whether the blaze was started deliberately.

No staff are believed to have been injured.

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A GMP spokesman confirmed that a number of animals were believed to have died as a result of the 7.10pm blaze.

He said: "Police and fire service are at the scene. Unfortunately, we believe a number of dogs have died as a result but we do not yet know the number."

Pictures of the blaze were posted on social media by concerned people living near to the long-established dogs home, which has capacity to care for 400 dogs.

Residents said they could hear 'dogs yelping'.

Twitter user @Hoyles10 said: "Big fire at Manchester Dogs Home, apparently the building has collapsed, too late for the animals by all accounts.... Heartbreaking."

And fellow user @MostonRedDevil wrote: "Manchester dogs home is on fire with all the dogs yelping."

The home was established in 1893 and has provided shelter for over 1m dogs.