TWO people have been rescued from a shop fire in County Durham.

Firefighters were called to the Best Foodstore and Off Licence off Delves Lane around 7pm tonight.

A spokesman for County Durham fire and rescue said two adults were helped from the scene by firefighters and were given oxygen therapy before being handed over to paramedics.

He said the roof of the building was in a state of collapse.

Durham Fire brigade deployed two search teams to scour the blazing building when it became clear the occupants may be trapped inside.

A spokesman said five fire engines and an aerial platform were needed to bring the flames under control.

They will be on scene most of the night.

A joint fire-police investigation is due to begin as soon as the building, in Old Hall Road, Consett, is declared safe.

A spokeswoman for Durham Constabulary said that three people were taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.

Contact The Northern Echo on 01325-505065 if you have more details of those involved or photos of the scene.