Huge clouds of smoke can be seen billowing above the skyline of Preston this evening, after a major fire has broken out at a building in the city centre. Fire crews from the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the blaze on Avenham Street, with a huge police presence also in attendance.
Dramatic video footage snapped from the scene shows clouds of thick black smoke over the building, which is understood to be the former Odeon Cinema and Tokyo Joe's. The fire service confirmed that 12 fire engines were in attendance, as they urged people to stay away and close their windows.
It is the second time firefighters have been called to the building in a week, after crews spent more than three hours there on Saturday, Lancs Live reports. Another fire also devastated the former Grade II listed St Joseph’s Orphanage in city centre last Friday.
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A spokeswoman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that as well as a dozen fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms were at the scene. "There is still quite a large smoke plume so people should keep their windows and doors shut," the spokeswoman said. "There are quite a few road closures in place which the police are managing."
Although no injuries have been reported to the fire service paramedics from North West Ambulance Service are at the scene and ready to assist. Lancashire Police are also in attendance. A further statement from the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is expected this evening.
Matthew Brown, leader of Preston City Council warned that the recent fires in the city centre are 'disturbing' and suggest a trend. He wrote on Twitter: "The recent fires taking place in Preston City Centre are very disturbing suggesting a possible trend. It has been raised by senior members and officers with both fire and police services. We will continue supporting our emergency services to effectively deal with the matter."
