Market closed until further notice following fire

Emergency services including the fire service and police have been at the scene

A covered market is closed until further notice after a fire that was described as "devastating" by the local council.

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue service was called to Milton Keynes Market, next to Centre:MK at about 19:27 GMT on Tuesday.

Eleven appliances and crews tackled the blaze and Thames Valley Police urged people to avoid the area and close windows and doors.

In a statement on social media, the Milton Keynes Market team said it was "deeply saddened" by the news.

Secklow Gate bridge, which the markets run underneath, has been left with scorch marks after the fire

The covered market is owned by the Milton Keynes Development Partnership and Milton Keynes City Council, and has a mixture of fixed stalls and casual pitches.

The market said emergency services worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control.

"This is a devastating blow to our market traders, especially during the busy Christmas period," a spokesperson said.

"We ask for your understanding and consideration during this difficult time, as businesses have been affected."

A fire broke out at the market 14 years ago, causing the bridge at Secklow Gate to close for 18 months.

A police spokesperson said the force was working with the fire service to determine the cause of the blaze.

They said Secklow Gate and the market remained closed.

Milton Keynes Market, on Midsummer Boulevard, said it was still assessing the extent of the damage