A huge blaze which is billowing thick black smoke across Fleetwood is likely to be ongoing for some time.
The former Ex-Catalogue Outlet in Lord Street, which was once also a Marks and Spencer store, has been on fire since around 5pm.
Approximately 20 firefighters from stations across the Fylde coast including Fleetwood, Blackpool, Lytham and St Annes are on the scene trying to get the flames under control.
It is not know what caused the blaze in the empty shop but concerns have been raised by witnesses at the scene it has been the target of vandals recently.
At least eight fire engines are being used to pump water onto the building which is connected to other retail premises.
Fire crews are doing their best to prevent it spreading to other nearby buildings.
One eyewitness said: “The flames are massive.
“This is a really big fire that looks like it could be at risk of spreading.
“At the back of the building you can see huge orange flames.
“The whole town is covered by thick black smoke, it’s horrible.”
A Lancashire Fire and Rescue spokesman said there had been no reports of anyone injured.
He added: “If you can see or smell smoke, please keep your windows and doors closed.
“We are also asking the public to stay away from the area to allow emergency crews to work safely.”
Lord Street has been closed between Preston Street and Kemp Street with authorities urging the public to avoid the area while operations continue.
The closure is causing disruption to local transport, including bus services 14 and 5, which are being diverted.
Blackpool Tramway services to Fleetwood Ferry have also been suspended and are now terminating at Fisherman’s Walk.
A Fleetwood Police spokesman said: “Emergency services are currently at the scene of a fire on Lord Street, Fleetwood.
“Lord Street is closed between Preston Street and Kemp Street. Please avoid the area.”
1. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Iconic Media Photo: Iconic Media
2. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Dave Nelson Photo: Dave Nelson
3. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Dave Nelson Photo: Dave Nelson
4. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Iconic Media Photo: Iconic Media
5. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Dave Nelson Photo: Dave Nelson
6. Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town
Firefighters are responding to a major fire at the former Ex Catalogue store and M&S in Lord Street, Fleetwood. Huge flames and thick black smoke can be seen billowing across the town | Dave Nelson Photo: Dave Nelson