Firefighters tackle blaze at former M&S store

Firefighters have been tackling a large blaze at a former shop complex overnight.

The fire broke out at about 17:00 BST at the empty three-storey store, formerly Marks & Spencer and then Ex Catalogue Outlet, on Lord Street in Fleetwood, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said.

Police said two boys aged 13 and 15 have been arrested on suspicion of arson.

There were no reports of injuries and at its peak there were eight fire engines at the scene.

The public were asked to stay away and keep their windows and doors shut, while road closures were put in place on Lord Street from Poulton Street to Ash Street.

Incident commander Chris West said said there was a "significant" smoke plume drifting over neighbouring properties but "everyone has remained safe"

The fire has also disrupted tram and bus services to Fleetwood.

Blackpool Transport said trams were terminating at Thornton Gate which is three and a half miles away from Fleetwood.

It said bus services 1,5 and 14 towards Fleetwood were diverting via Lofthouse Way, Station Road, Dock Street, Pharos Street and terminating at Lord Street

Towards Blackpool, buses were diverting via Queens Terrace, Dock Street, Station Road and Lofthouse Way.

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