FIRE crews tackled a blaze at the old IBM site last night.

Massive plumes of heavy grey smoke could be seen right across the town.

Firefighters say they were called out twice to the former factory.

Greenock crew manager Chris Bjoness said: “I believe it was controlled, there were piles of rubbish burning.

“There were crews from Greenock and Gourock and we were out at least a couple of times.

“There was a lot of smoke from the fires but no danger to anyone.”

The pall of smoke settled over the town, covering parts of Fancy Farm and Branchton.

It is understood that there were fires in two separate locations on the site, the old reception area and the far side of the former module building.

One eyewitness said: “It looked to be part of the demolition process.

“The smoke has settled over Fancy Farm, up the Valley and Branchton and I have heard it has been causing breathing difficulties for people in these areas.”

It’s believed calls were made about the fire from around 6pm last night and a strong smell of smoke was still present over much of the town this morning.