An investigation is underway following a fire at a derelict pub in Ribbleton.

Crews from Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service were called at around 1.57pm today (May 3) after a fire involving a pile of rubbish near the Old England pub.

Witnesses told us Ribbleton Lane was covered in thick black smoke after the fire got out of hand.

A statement from Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service said: “Three fire engines; two from Preston and one from Penwortham, attended a fire involving a pile of rubbish at a derelict building in Preston.

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“Initially there were fears that someone was still inside the property and two teams of firefighters entered into the building to carry out searches and extinguish the fire.

“Soon after, everyone had been accounted for and no injuries were reported.

“The cause is now under investigation.”

The pub closed in 1999 and has been empty since.