Police remain at the scene of a devastating fire which has left a historic former North East cinema unrecognisable as homes in the area have been evacuated.

Cleveland Police officers are still in attendance on Dent Street and York Road in Hartlepool following a large-scale blaze that has devastated the former Odeon cinema.

Multiple fire crews were called to the scene of the blaze last night (October 5) that broke out around 11pm and ripped through the building into the early hours of the morning.

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN) The bright orange inferno was pictured from above sending smoke plumes into the air and the surrounding area still remains under a police cordon.

A Cleveland Police statement reads: "Officers remain at the scene of a large fire at the disused Odeon building on Dent Street in Hartlepool alongside colleagues from Cleveland Fire Brigade and Hartlepool Borough Council.

"Road closures remain in place on York Road, Hart Lane and Raby Road and these are expected to stay closed for some time whilst the incident is dealt with.

"A number of properties on Joicey Court have been evacuated and we are continuing to work with housing agencies in relation to this.

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN) "There are currently no reports of any injuries. Residents are urged to avoid the area.

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"Officers would like to thank everyone for their patience and co-operation while emergency services work together to bring this incident to a safe conclusion."

The latest comment from Cleveland Fire Brigade reads: A Cleveland Fire Brigade statement reads: "We are currently (06/10/24, 08:30) dealing with a protracted incident involving a building fire (former Odeon Cinema) at York Road, Hartlepool.

"There are currently 2 fire appliances in attendance. Please avoid the area if you can."