Portsmouth firefighters battling large blaze on Hampshire high street

Eight fire engines, including one from Southsea, are at the scene of the blaze in Shirley, Southampton. 

The high street is closed in both directions as around 30 firefighters battle the blaze this morning (November 21). 

Pictures from the scene appear to show that the fire is affecting the Paddy Power bookmaker in Shirley. 

Residents in the area are being advised to keep windows and doors shut.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue tweeted: '˜We are currently dealing with a large fire in #Shirley High Street.

'˜About 30 firefighters are on the scene. Please avoid the area.' 

As well as the eight fire engines at the scene there are also two aerial ladder platforms in Shirley as firefighters battle the blaze. 

The Bluestar 4, 7, 17 and 18 buses will not be stopping at Shirley Precinct and Church Street as a result of the fire '“ with passengers advised that the closest bus stop is Shirley Police Station.