FIREFIGHTERS attended the scene of a fire in the centre of Kendal.

Eight fire engines were outside the premises of Thomas Cook on Stricklandgate.

The Westmorland Shopping Centre has been evacuated and part of Stricklandgate has been cordoned off.

The fire is believed to have started in a light fitting in the first floor storeroom of the travel agents.

Station manager Kevin Johnston said nobody was reported to have been inside at the time.

Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed that the fire was in one of the shop units on the first floor and was spreading quickly to adjacent units. 

A further six fire engines and a hydraulic platform were called to assist in tackling the fire.

Crews from Kendal, Staveley, Windermere and Sedbergh were at the scene, as well as an aerial ladder from Barrow.

Police were also in attendance.

Stricklandgate, from the junction at Library Road to the junction of Sandes Avenue was closed to traffic while the fire was dealt with. Library Road was also closed.

All roads that were temporarily closed have now reopened.

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The fire is now out and crews remain at the scene ventilating the property.

Cumbria’s chief fire officer Paul Hancock said:

“This was a major incident and crews responded admirably to a dangerous situation.

"It’s to their credit that the fire was quickly brought under control. We will continue to monitor the situation and will be conducting a follow up investigation to determine the cause.”