Firefighters tackle blaze in disused building

Fire crews have been tackling a large fire at a disused building in Crewe.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to Catherine Street shortly before 16:30 BST on Friday.

The fire service said it was working to dampen the flames as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of the fire spreading to nearby buildings.

Fifteen fire engines from across the county and other specialist appliances were called in to tackle the flames.

Cheshire Police said a cordon was put in place on Nantwich Road, Bedford Street, Frances Street and Catherine Street while firefighters dealt with the blaze, which they said was at a former printers.

They added that a number of homes have also been evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Fire crews from eight fire stations have been tackling the blaze

Crewe and Nantwich MP Connor Naismith described it as a "major incident".

He said the fire was at the former Communisis building, and added that Crewe Lifestyle Centre had been opened for people who have been evacuated.

Water firm United Utilities said that the use of fire hydrants in the area had disrupted supplies to some customers.

It also warned that sediment in the pipes could discolour water for a time afterwards.

Police said there were no reports of any injuries, and said they believed it to be an isolated incident, not linked to recent disorder.

Fire crews were also called to a fire at a commercial premises in Sandbach earlier in the day.