Fire officials have warned Glasgow residents to keep their windows closed after a major blaze broke out in the city centre, due to the suspected presence of asbestos.
Some 120 firefighters were dealing with the flames as shoppers and residents were urged to stay indoors.
Shops were evacuated after the fire broke out at 8.18am in Sauchiehall Street near the junction with Hope Street, and several other streets were cordoned off.
Smoke billowed across Sauchiehall Street as fire crews battled the blaze.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the occupants of several nearby properties were evacuated and there were no reports of any injuries.
Hope Street was closed to all traffic between Bath Street and Renfrew Street, with Renfield Street also closed between Renfrew Street and Bath Street while emergency services dealt with the incident.
An SFRS spokesman said: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 8.18am to reports of a well-developed fire which had taken hold within the roof space of a commercial premises.
“Operations control mobilised a number of fire engines to Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, where firefighters are currently on the scene working to extinguish the fire.
“Crews have safely evacuated the occupants of several nearby properties.
“We would urge the occupants of surrounding buildings to remain indoors and keep their windows closed due to the suspected presence of asbestos.”
PA
