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Teenagers have been warned not to enter an abandoned building in Preston city centre.

Police have issued the plea after reports of children climbing and gaining access to the former St Joseph’s Orphanage in Mount Street.

A teenager was seen dangling their legs from the top of the building.

PCSO Stephen Connolly said: I’m well aware of the ‘urban myths’ which are attached to this building however I cannot reiterate how dangerous being inside this building is. The interior is in that dangerous condition that Lancashire Fire & Rescue service occasionally use it as a training exercise.

“Anyone entering this building is putting themselves in considerable risk of serious harm or worse. The last thing we want is to visit at any parents and tell them that their child has ended up in hospital seriously injured (or worse)

“We work very closely with the owners, who have spent considerable money securing the premises.”

Read more: Former Orphanage to be among six key sites developed for housing

The building has stood empty for more than a decade, and in June it was announced the city council had appointed architects to draw up proposals for the building – owned by David Gornall.

Anyone who sees people entering the Orphanage is asked to call Preston Police on 101.