Former cinema significantly damaged in large fire

Fire crews have not been able to assess the former Odeon cinema in Hartlepool following the blaze

A former cinema has been "significantly damaged" in a large fire, police said.

The blaze broke out in the disused Odeon building on Dent Street in Hartlepool at about 23:00 BST on Saturday and several properties nearby were evacuated.

Cleveland Police said road closures will remain in place and a fence will be erected to keep people at a "safe distance" from the building.

Some residents on Joicey Court, who had to leave their homes, were staying in alternative accommodation, police said.

Cleveland Police added: "We continue to work in partnership with housing agencies in relation to this."

At its peak, eight fire engines were in attendance, Cleveland Fire Brigade said.

There were no reports of injuries.

Emergency crews have not been able to safely gain access to the building to determine the cause, because of the damage.

The fire started on Saturday evening

The fire service said an assessment was conducted in the early hours and no signs of hot spots or smoke were detected.

People have been told to avoid the area.

Road closures will remain in place in Raby Road, at the end of Young Street and Dent Street, police said.