UPDATE: Investigation launched after fire at Grange Park pub

Two crews from Blackpool were called to the Dinmore pub at just before 5am this morning, say fire services.

They were joined by two more crews from Bispham who helped extinguish the large blaze using hose-reel jets.

Pictures released by the fire services show that the pub has suffered extensive damage in the incident.

Watch Manager Warren Topp said: "Two crews originally attended from Blackpool but when we arrived we could see smoke issuing out of the eaves so called for an additional two engines.

"Police were called to assist with road closures.

"We found a door open on the first floor and sent fire officers in with breathing equipment and a 45ml hose jet.

"Even though it seemed to be a derelict building we wanted to make sure that no people remained inside.

"It took us an hour-and-a-half to ensure that the fire was properly extinguished.

"The fire was mainly in the bar area of the pub and had spread to the ceiling so it was quite difficult to put out.

"We are investigating the fire as a deliberate one as there are no other legitimate ignition sources."

CSI are due to attend the scene this morning to continue with the investigation.

A spokesman for the police said: "We were called to assist the fire services with a large fire at a pub in Dinmore Avenue.

"We believe that the crews now have the fire under control although the road remains closed.

"We have not had any reports that anyone was inside the building."

The Dinmore was sold at auction in 2014 for £250,000.