FIREFIGHTERS are battling a blaze in a barn at Ashley Hall this afternoon, Friday. 

Crews were called to reports of a barn fire at the hall on Ashley Road in Ashley at 9.27am this morning (Friday).

They are currently fighting the fire with main water jets.

The hall - dating back to the late 16th century - is a grade two listed building and the fire began in a barn on the site. The hall itself is not believed to be in danger. 

Fire engines from Knutsford, Wilmslow, Stockton Heath and Birchwood plus a fire engine from Greater Manchester are all taking part. 

There are currently have six main water jets helping to contain the fire to the barn where it started.

Crews are expected to be there for some time to come.

A statement released by the fire service at 3pm said: "There are two fire engines from Cheshire still at the scene and the engine from Greater Manchester has been returned to its station. 

"Good progress is being made but a large amount of straw is still burning at this incident.

"Crews are currently protecting other buildings on site and are using ground monitors to disperse water over the area.

"A hydraulic platform is also at the scene to fight the fire from above."