The fire in Hereford’s High Town is now under control – but the area is likely to remain cordoned off for the remainder of the day.

Other parts of the city centre – include Maylords Orchard, Widemarsh Street, Broad Street, Commercial Street and Commercial Road, are open for business as usual.

Shop workers and council officials left stranded by the blaze are seeking refuge in Hereford Shire Hall until they are told it is safe to return.

Around 70 fire fighters and 20 fire engines have been at the site of the fire, which began in the Card Factory, when it took hold at around 4.30am this morning and spread to a number of neighbouring shops.

Four people were evacuated from city centre flats – but no-one has been injured and no-one is reported missing.

Fire hose reels have placed along the length of Commercial Street to gather water to quell the blaze.

The Black and White house in the centre of High Town is undamaged.

High Town, the Buttermarket, St Owen Street and St Peter’s Square are currently closed.

To help city centre shop workers, Herefordshire Council has opened up the Shire Hall as a gathering centre so workers can get the latest information.

Due to the amount of water used on the fire, people may experience low water pressure or slightly discoloured water in the city centre.

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