More than 200 troops, aided by tanks, have advanced about a kilometre up the hills and taken the town of Grajre after encountering fierce resistance from the rebels.

Macedonian tanks roll over Tetovo's central square leading the way to the hills

Heavy mortars are loaded to bombard ethnic Albanian rebel positions

Troops prepare to open fire during clashes with the guerrillas

And take cover as they advance towards the Albanian controlled village of Gajre

A soldier helps an injured colleague in Tetovo

Calling for reinforcements

Soldiers cover their ears from the noise of machine gun and artillery fire

A house burns after being hit by shells