Blandford Street fire: Blaze that destroyed Peacocks shop in Sunderland city centre 'not thought to be suspicious' say police

Firefighters tackle the blaze at Peacocks last night. Picture by RYAN LIM.

An investigation is underway into what caused the blaze which tore through the Peacocks store, in Blandford Street, last night.

Firefighters took ten hours to tackle the fire, with flames being visible across the city centre.

A cordon remains in place around the building, which Sunderland City Council says will now face 'probable demolition'.

IN PICTURES: Dramatic daytime images of devastation caused by Peacocks blaze.

This afternoon, a Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: "At about 7.20pm yesterday (Wednesday), police received a report of a fire at a business premises on Blandford Street, Sunderland.

"Emergency services attended and the road was closed whilst the fire was extinguished.

Firefighters on an aerial platform battle the fire which tore through the Peacocks store in Blandford Street. Picture by RYAN LIM.

Traders speak of shock after huge fire.

"Luckily nobody was injured however, the area has been cordoned off for public safety.

"An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire however, the cause of the fire is not thought to be suspicious.

BLANDFORD STREET FIRE: Read the latest updates as they happen here.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 927 23/01/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."