Firefighters fight a major fire in the former Odeon cinema and nightclub

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Firefighters tackle a massive blaze at a former Odeon cinema in Preston city center tonight.

Police, paramedics and 12 fire engines were called to the area next to Evoque nightclub as billows of black smoke billowed across the city.

Two aerial ladder platforms and an air support unit are also present as firefighters try to put out the fire.

Police have closed several roads in Preston in the second blaze to hit the city center in days after crews spent more than three hours fighting another blaze last Saturday.

Firefighters are urging people to stay away from the area and are warning everyone nearby to keep windows and doors closed.

Photos and video taken at the scene show the building sustained significant damage.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service stated: “12 fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge, Fulwood, Wesham, Leyland, South Shore, Blackpool, Great Harwood, Hyndburn, Penwortham and Tarleton; two turntable ladder platforms from Preston and Blackpool; the air support unit; and a Blackburn Command Support Unit are present at a major building fire on Church Street in Preston.

“The building is partially derelict, some parts are also used for commercial purposes. Firefighters wearing SCBA use hose reels and ground monitors to control the fire. We are working with Lancashire Police, Preston City Council and other partners in an agency response to the incident.

“Road closures are in place and crews are expected to remain on site overnight. Please avoid the area and keep your windows and doors closed if affected by smoke.”