Search for missing man after derelict building fire

Police are appealing for help in tracing Marcin Kozierowski, 37, following the fire in a derelict Preston city centre building

Police are searching for a missing man after a fire at a derelict building in Preston.

Detectives believe people could have been sleeping rough at the property on Church Street before the blaze on Tuesday, Lancashire Police said.

The force said it wanted to find Marcin Kozierowski, 37, to ensure he was "safe and well".

The demolition of part of the building began on Thursday, with work expected to continue over the weekend.

People may have been sleeping rough in the building, police say

Supt Gary Crowe said police believed some rough sleepers could have been in the city centre building when the blaze broke out at about 18:30 GMT.

"We have received information around the possibility of people sleeping rough within the building and this is forming part of our enquiries, including a search to find a missing man," he added.

He said the force would "continue to monitor the situation".

The blaze is being investigated by Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service along with Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council.

Four fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge and Blackpool were sent to the fire.

Manchester Road and Church Street, Church Row and Church Street and Guild Row and Church Street have been closed to vehicles and pedestrians, with diversions in place.