People told to keep doors and windows closed as firefighters battle blaze at disused building in Sunderland

Fire has broken out at a building in Carley Hill Road in the Carley Hill area.

Residents living nearby are being urged to keep their doors and windows closed as it is believed the property may contain asbestos.

Crews are on the scene trying to put out the flames.

It is not yet clear how the blaze started.

Firefighters have been seen using aerial ladder platforms to spray water jets onto the top of the building and dampen the fire.

The North East Ambulance Service's hazardous area response team is also present at the scene.

Northumbria Police has tweeted: "Police are dealing with a fire at a derelict property in the Carley Hill area of #Sunderland.

"The building may contain asbestos which is being blown around in the wind.

"Residents in Carley Hill and Southwick are asked to keep doors and windows closed until advised."

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has tweeted: "Due to a large derelict building on fire, residents in the Carley Hill and Southwick area of #Sunderland are advised to keep windows and doors closed until further notice."

One witness told the Echo: "The building has been unoccupied for a while.

"I don’t know whose it is.

"The fire brigade have blocked the path that people use to cut through.

"People walk along Viewforth Terrace and through the cut but people are being turned back and have to walk all the way round.

"I suspect anyone walking back from the air show to Witherwack and Carley Hill will all be sent back to walk round and along Thompson Road."