A total of 36 fire service personnel have been at the scene of a large fire in a Stoke-on-Trent town centre.

Flames and smoke could be seen billowing from the roof of a three-storey commercial building on Market Street in Longton this morning (Tuesday 2 September) and fire crews were first alerted at 2:50am.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue has six engines at the scene along with two aerial ladder platforms, which are being used to tackle the blaze from above. There are a further three support vehicles also at the scene.

Market Street has now been shut to the junction for Anchor Road. Meanwhile King Street has been shut going towards Longton between the junction for March Road and Market Street. Railway Passage has also been closed due to the fire.

The fire service is advising motorists to avoid the area for the rest of the day.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue said: "We were called out to a building fire on Market Street in Longton. We were confronted with a three-storey commercial premises that was well alight.

"We are currently dampening down the fire."

There have been no reported injuries.

First Potteries has also confirmed the 6, 6A, 11 and 11X will be diverted due to the road closure on Market Street.

A spokesperson for the bus operator said: "Due to a building fire, Market Street is closed in Longton.

"We will divert the above services between Fenton and Longton via Clarence Road, Ashwood, Upper Cross Street and Anchor Road.

"We are unable to serve the stop in Market Street until further notice."

It comes as crews were dealing with another large fire last night, which appeared to be close to the partially demolished J. H. Weatherby Falcon Pottery factory, in Birches Head.

Stoke Nub News has approached Staffordshire Fire and Rescue for a further statement.