Blackley fire: Crews tackle blaze at derelict club

The fire broke out at the former Vasa venue

Firefighters have been tackling a huge blaze at a former club described as "one of the most famous venues in north Manchester" by a councillor.

The fire broke out at the derelict Vasa venue in White Moss Road, Blackley at about 20:20 BST on Wednesday.

Crews from five engines have since extinguished the blaze.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "An investigation into the cause of the fire will begin this morning."

Crews have now extinguished the blaze

Pat Karney, councillor for Harpurhey and Collyhurst, told BBC Radio Manchester that it was "one of the most famous venues in north Manchester".

He said: "The fire will bring back lots of emotions and memories for people who lived in north Manchester and afar.

"[It's] so sad to see it end like this.

"It's like part of our lives gone up in flames really."

He added the venue had "never recovered" from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and there had been speculation as to what it might be used for in the future.