Warning after fire under Sunderland's Northern Spire bridge generates mass of smoke

Plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the scene, and drivers and members of the public were warned to be careful while using the Sunderland bridge.

A crew from Sunderland Central fire station attended the scene of a derelict property on fire by the River Wear under the landmark bridge late this morning (Sunday, December 22).

A spokesperson for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue said: “We were called at 11.55am and have one appliance at the scene.

“Smoke is coming from an old out building and we have not determined the cause of the fire.

“We have issued a warning to the public due to amount of smoke generating in the area and around the bridge.”

Four fire fighters attended the scene to deal with the incident.