FIRE crews from Crediton have been among more than 120 from across the county battling to stop the spread of a serious fire, described as a “major incident” which is believed to have started in an art gallery in Cathedral Close, Exeter, at about 5.20am today, October 28.

The Crediton crews were among the first to attend the fire which spread to Exeter’s historic Royal Clarence Hotel later from about 10am.

By 2pm the roof of the oldest hotel in the country had collapsed in and flames could be seen tearing through the reception of the hotel.

Police are in attendance to support Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service personnel while they continue work in relation to the fire.

Road closures are in place around the area to allow the fire service to complete its work and for the safety of the public.

A police spokesperson said: “It is hoped to re-open High Street to pedestrians and public transport as soon as possible, but this is dependent on the fire service safely completing its activities at the scene of the fire on Cathedral Green.”

It is likely that Cathedral green will remain cordoned off and not accessible to the public for some time.

Nearby properties and businesses and the Royal Clarence Hotel were evacuated as a precaution, and all staff and residents from the area were accounted for.

It is not known at this time how the fire started.

No injuries are reported.

There is likely to be traffic disruption due to road closures while the emergency services continue to deal with the incident.

Exeter City Council has urged people to avoid the area while the emergency services deal with the fire.

The fire can be seen from many miles away and local residents are warned they may experience low water pressure.

Fire crews from other areas of the county have come to Crediton to cover while the Crediton crews are at the scene.

• Did you see the fire in Exeter? Share your images with fellow Courier readers by emailing them to: [email protected] .

Alan Quick