Large fire in Sunderland

Police suspect that a fire at a derelict warehouse in Sunderland was an arson attack. An officer on patrol noticed the fire at the Alexandra Business Park, on Woodbine Terrace, at 5.40pm on November 2. It was extinguished by firefighters.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101.

Striking firefighters were not called to a huge fire in Sunderland last night because it was not classified as a 'major incident'.

The fire was in a derelict building at the Alexandra Business Park. It was reported at 5:15pm on November 2.

Firefighters who are currently out on strike will not return to work to deal with a large fire in Sunderland, because it is not being classed as a major incident, a spokesman for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said.

The service will deal with the fire under its contingency plan instead.

The fire is in a derelict building at the Alexandra Business Park. It was reported at 5:15pm on Sunday, 2nd November.

A spokesman said it is believed to involve cylinders inside the building, but she was not aware of any people involved in the fire.

Firefighters expect to be dealing with it for some time.

• Pictures: Large fire in Sunderland

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is at the scene of a large fire in Sunderland.

An eyewitness reported hearing a large explosion nearby. The fire is in the area of the Alexandra Bridge. The fire service said it is in the early stages of dealing with the fire, and had sent several fire engines.

Firefighters across the country are currently striking in a dispute over pay and pensions.