A large fire in Liverpool city centre led to a major incident being declared.
Fire crews were called to the blaze at a four-storey building on Fox Street shortly before 2.20pm on Saturday and evacuated neighbouring properties.
Nearby roads including Great Homer Street were closed as a precaution with early indications that the alight structure was ‘showing signs of collapse’.
Plumes of smoke from the fire were visible from across the city and could be seen over Goodison Park ahead of Everton’s FA Cup tie with Luton Town.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the major incident had been downgraded by 5pm while three fire engines remained on site.
“Hot spotting continues with high pressure hose reels and main branch hoses,” confirmed an update from the service.
“A structural engineer has attended and advised that they are satisfied with the structural integrity of the building.
“Merseyside Police will maintain an outer cordon at the incident scene.”