Dramatic video shows smoke billowing out of the scorched roof of a derelict pub in St Helens .
Dozens of firefighters are trying to control a blaze at the former Green Dragon Pub on Gartons Lane.
Video shows flickers of fire still burning hours after it was first reported at 5.20am today (April 15) and part of the roof has been completely destroyed.
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Firefighters can be seen hosing down the building as fire keeps sparking back up and tinned up windows have been blown out.
Nearby roads, Jubits Lane and Chester Lane have been shut by Merseyside Police while 25 firefighters from four fire engines and a combined platform ladder battle the blaze.
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Klare Brereton, who lives four doors down from the former pub told the ECHO : "I woke at 20 past 6 and it was being tackled then. But my elderly neighbor said it was about 5 this morning. I’ve been observing it since and it’s not slowing down.
"It’s awful, such a beautiful old building that has sadly been refused planning as a nursery then a car wash. Vandalism has sadly been done to the building and youths were in there last week, throwing things at cars from the upper windows.
"We're all very saddened by this."
Merseyside Fire and Rescue have advised residents and businesses to keep their windows and doors closed and told anyone with health conditions to keep medicine close.
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In a statement the fire service said: "Firefighters are currently dealing with a fire at a derelict property on Gartons Lane, Clock Face, in St Helens.
"Crews were alerted to the former Green Dragon Pub at 5.20am and on scene at 5.28am. Four fire engines are currently in attendance, as well as the combined platform ladder.
"On arrival crews found the property to be well alight."
They added: "Nearby residents and businesses are advised to keep windows and doors closed. If any ill effects are experienced, call NHS 111. Anyone with an existing health condition should keep medicines nearby.
"The incident is ongoing."
