Emergency services rushed to the scene of a fire close to the University of Lancashire on Thursday evening (4 September).
The fire, which was first reported at around 4.30pm, was sending smoke into the air which could be seen from a significant distance away.
Multiple witnesses told Blog Preston the fire is at the former social club (known as the New Friargate Social Club) on Maudland Bank, close to the junctions with Maudland Road, Pedder Street and Leighton Street close to the university.
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Officers from Lancashire Constabulary were moving the public away from the scene of the fire and assisting the fire service with managing the scene.
Those nearby are advised to keep their windows and doors shut.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: “At 16:26 on 4 September, six fire engines attended a disused building fire on Maudland Bank, Preston. Firefighters continue to extinguish the one storey building using four mainline jets, four breathing apparatus, one hose reel and one ground monitor.
“There is a significant smoke plume, so please keep windows and doors shut and stay away from the area.”
Roads around Maudland Bank and Pedder Street are closed off near to the empty social club building which has been abandoned for many years and falling into disrepair.
See footage below of the fire or watch on our YouTube channel
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