Firefighters are currently dealing with major fire at a derelict pub in the region.
Emergency services were called to Whitburn Lodge on Mill Lane in Whitburn, Sunderland, just after 4.30pm.
The venue, currently on the market to be sold, has fallen into disrepair since closing ten years ago, is said to be well alight.
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A spokeswoman for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “It is still ongoing.
“We have got five appliances and an aerial ladder platform in attendance “It is sounds as if it is going quite strongly.
“It is quite congested in that area so people should avoid it.”
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It is understood police are on the scene to help with traffic management.
The building closed its doors to customers in 2012 and has previously been targeted by vandals and drug dealers who used it to grow cannabis plants.
The cause of the fire is not know at this stage.
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