Emergency services deal with large building fire

Three people have been rescued from a burning building in Stoke-on-Trent by firefighters.

Emergency crews were deployed to a large building fire on Waterloo Road in Burslem at about 12:30 GMT on Tuesday.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said an aerial ladder platform was used to save three people after a staircase became blocked due to smoke.

They received oxygen treatment at the scene and were taken to hospital, along with two others, as a precaution.

A total of seven fire crews were in attendance, the fire service said.

The ambulance service added that three ambulances, two paramedic officers, a hazardous area response team and air ambulance were sent to the scene, but no serious injuries were reported.

The fire service said it continued to deal with the blaze, which involved a flat roof area of the building.

Police remain at the scene, with a cordon in place.

Part of Burslem town centre continues to be affected by smoke, and locals are urged to avoid the area and close windows and doors.

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