A cordon remains following a fire that decimated a former North East cinema over the weekend as evacuated residents remain in temporary accommodation.

The former Odeon cinema on York Street in Hartlepool was engulfed in an inferno that tore through the building just before midnight on Saturday (October 5).

Multiple fire engines and the police attended the scene, cordoning the area off as they battled the raging flames into Sunday afternoon (October 6).

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN) As day broke, the extent of the damage sustained by the 1930s grade II listed building was visible including the roof and its foundations which caved in during the blaze.

As part of the response, residents on the neighbouring Joicey Street were evacuated and are now living in temporary accommodation. 

Police have now confirmed that they remain at the scene as they urge people to stay away from the area.

A Cleveland Police statement reads: "A cordon remains in place at the scene of a large fire at the disused Odeon building on Dent Street in Hartlepool.

"Cleveland Police officers remain at the cordon alongside colleagues from Hartlepool Borough Council.

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN) "The building has been significantly damaged by fire and fencing will be erected today to help keep the public at a safe distance from it. Residents are urged to avoid the area.

"At this time, due to the damage to the building, Fire Brigade colleagues have not been able to safely gain access to the building to determine the cause of the fire.

"Some residents from houses nearby remain in alternative accommodation after several properties on Joicey Court were evacuated and we continue to work in partnership with housing agencies about this.

"Road closures will remain in place in Raby Road and the end of Young Street and Dent Street. Temporary traffic diversions are in place and local public transport providers have been made aware.

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"There are currently no reports of any injuries. Officers would like to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation."

Pictures showed five engines tackling the blaze late into the night that had collapsed the roof and left bricks from the building littered across the road.

The cause of the fire has not yet been revealed.