BRADFORD firefighters were called out to a major incident at a well-known Italian restaurant in Hebden Bridge this morning.

A large fire spread from La Perla in Burlees House to nearby offices and properties on either side in the early hours.

People were still inside the building when the fire broke out, firefighters said.

Residents had to be evacuated from the scene while Hebden Bridge Town Hall was opened to support members of the public affected by the incident.

The town centre has been closed off with people asked to avoid the area for the foreseeable.

Meanwhile residents in the area have been urged to keep their windows and doors shut.

Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley, Conservative) said: “Sad to see this iconic mill go up in flames during the night.

“Thankfully there are no known casualties. The town centre is currently closed off and people living in the town centre of Hebden Bridge are advised to keep windows and doors closed.

“Please avoid the area if possible.”

The fire began around 2.12am, leading to a huge response from Mytholmroyd, Halifax, Ilkley, Huddersfield, Slaithwaite, Hunslet, Bingley and Shipley fire stations.

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue was also supported by teams from Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

Specialists set up welfare units as the blaze continued to spread through the building.

Gas and electric support has been requested, the fire service said.

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