Demolition work has begun on a derelict three-storey building in Stoke-on-Trent city centre following a major fire that broke out on Stafford Street in Hanley.
Dozens of firefighters were called to the scene shortly before 00:40 BST on Thursday. At the peak of the fire, six crews of about 40 firefighters, two aerial ladder platforms and a fire command vehicle were in attendance. Firefighters battled the blaze throughout Thursday, with roof tiles removed from the building to enable crews to tackle the fire.
Fire extinguished but roads remain closed
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed on Friday that the blaze had been extinguished. Crews remained at the scene to dampen down hot spots.
Foundry Street has reopened, but a section of Stafford Street near Leek Building Society and the top of Trinity Street remained closed while work continued.
Next steps
Officials from Stoke-on-Trent City Council were present as demolition began. A further multi-agency meeting will take place once demolition is complete, after which next steps will be agreed over plans to carry out a search of the building. An investigation into the cause of the fire will take place in due course, the fire service confirmed.