20 firefighters tackle city centre building blaze

Four fire engines from three different stations across the city and an aerial platform have attended the blaze at a building believed to be derelict in Deptford Terrace.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service fire service was alerted at 5.20pm today.

The blaze is now under control but there is a lot of smoke in the area.

It is believed the warehouse is used to store construction scrap materials.

Station manager Adrian Jackson, of fire headquarters in Washington, said: "There was a small quantity of rubbish inside the property but the fire is well under control.

"There is no reason for any concern. Because of the damp weather conditions the smoke is hanging in the air.

"The fire is out and we are now damping down. Crews will remain in the area for some time."

There are no reports of any injuries.