Here are the first pictures from the scene of the Hartlepool fire on Raby Road.
Cleveland Fire Brigade have confirmed that the fire is taking place inside the former Engineers Social Club.
The incident began at 7.30pm and members of the public are being warned to stay away while emergency services deal with the fire.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "Cleveland Police and the Fire Brigade are dealing with a large fire in Hartlepool Officers were called to the scene at around 7.30pm today, 30 April 2024, at The Engineers Social Club on Raby Road.
Follow our live blog here: LIVE: Dozens of firefighters battle huge blaze as town centre is cordoned off - updates
"Although there is no threat to members of the public, officers advise that people avoid the area and nearby residents should close windows to avoid the volume of smoke entering their home.
"Police will remain on scene while the Fire Brigade deal with the fire."
Here is video and the first pictures from the scene:
Credit: Terry Blackburn
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