A fire has broken out at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral this afternoon as fire crews warned residents and visitors to stay away.
Crews were alerted and on the scene around 3pm, with two fire engines and one aerial appliance attending in response to reports of a fire at the top of the tower.
Images show thick smoke bellowing from the tower at the St James' Mount site, with the building evacuated by emergency responders.
The latest reports indicate the cause of the fire was "electrical", originating from a balcony on the top floor, and that crews have extinguished the fire.
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The building was forced to evacuate to allow crews to tackle the blaze this afternoon, with a cordon established to keep visitors at a safe distance.
A spokesman for Liverpool Cathedral said: “We are aware of the recent fire at our site and apologise for any concern or disruption this incident may have caused.
"We are cooperating with the relevant authorities as investigations are carried out to determine the cause of the incident. The Cathedral is now closed for today.
"We would like to sincerely thank the fire and rescue service for their swift response and support, which has been invaluable.
The building was forced to evacuate to allow crews to tackle the blaze this afternoon.
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“We are expected to be open as normal tomorrow. However, the tower will remain closed.”
A Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service spokesman confirmed crews were alerted at 2.44pm, and on scene at 2.49pm, where "firefighters fought the fire, and the building was evacuated".
The spokesman added: "At 3.22pm the main body of fire was extinguished.
"Fire Service personnel are liaising with onsite staff to isolate utilities and make the scene safe. This incident is ongoing, please avoid the area."
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At least one fire engine remains at the scene, with emergency presence expected to remain to ensure the building is safe for staff to re-enter.
Crowds of visitors hoping to visit the site today will have to rearrange plans in light of the incident.
One group of women visiting from Tennessee told the Liverpool Echo they had hoped to see the cathedral as part of a brief stop in the city en route to a cruise aboard the Majestic Princess.
Liverpool Anglican Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Britain, and the 5th largest in the world
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One woman told reporters at the scene: “We came to visit, but were told it was closed because of a fire.
“We hope it’s only a small fire, as we’d hate to see any damage.”
The group said it was their first time in the city, and that they plan to return to the cathedral on a future visit.
Liverpool Anglican Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Britain, and the 5th largest in the world, offering daily worship services with music and quiet reflection, and featuring large-scale art installations.