AROUND 40 people have been forced to leave their homes as firefighters battle a blaze at a four-storey building in Perth.
Several casualties were reported at the fire in Scott Street, while one firefighter was injured by falling masonry.
Crews were called to the junction of Scott Street and South Street at around 1.30am and remain at the scene.
Police Scotland said officers have closed off Scott Street, South Street and Canal Street.
The force urged people to avoid the area.
First Minister John Swinney, the MSP for Perthshire North, wrote on social media: “Very concerned to hear of a fire in Scott Street, Perth. Hope everyone is safe.”
Pete Wishart, MP for Perth and Kinross-shire, added: “Hearing reports of a terrible fire in Scott Street in Perth overnight. Hope everyone is safe.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 1.47am on Saturday June 14 to reports of a dwelling fire at Scott Street, Perth.
“Operations Control initially mobilised three appliances to the scene and on arrival firefighters found the roof well alight on the top-floor of a four-storey residential building.
“A further nine appliances were requested to support the incident and at its height, a total of 12 appliances were in attendance dealing with structural collapses.
“Around 40 affected residents were evacuated and taken to the Salutation Hotel which is being used as a respite centre.
“Several casualties were passed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service, including one firefighter who sustained a minor injury from fallen masonry.
“As at 10am, the incident has been scaled back to four appliances and one height resource. Firefighters remain on scene as they dampen down hotspots”.
