Cumbrian emergency services are continuing to respond to a major incident in Workington as a reception centre has been opened for those evacuated.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service are continuing to tackle a shed fire at a property on Bolton Street which was reported shortly before 5:30pm Monday, September 8.

The shed contains two acetylene cylinders, which are highly flammable.

Superintendent Sarah Jones, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “A major incident was declared to coordinate the activity of many agencies in providing a comprehensive response to support residents who have been evacuated from their homes in Workington.

“A reception centre is open for those who have been evacuated and require use of these facilities.

“The priority of this response is to ensure the safety of all residents and support those who have been evacuated.

“We expect this incident to run throughout the night.

“Therefore, those who have been evacuated are likely to remain so until tomorrow morning at the earliest.

“I would like to thank those impacted by this evacuation for their continued patience.”

Stuart Hook, Area Manager at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, added: “Crews have been tackling a complex fire for a number of hours.

“Acetylene cylinders are highly flammable and we will continue to carefully assess the volatility of the cylinders to ensure the safety of residents and first responders.

“Our crews have surrounded the fire, however it will take time to safely resolve this incident.”

A 100 metre cordon is in place and homes within this zone have been evacuated as a precaution and the emergency services have advised those who have been evacuated from their homes are likely to remain so until tomorrow morning.

Those evacuated have been allowed back to their homes as of Tuesday, September 9.

A reception centre is open at the Carnegie Theatre on Finkle Street, Workington, CA14 2BD.

A wider 200m outer cordon has also been established to prevent people from turning up at the scene and allow Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service to continue tackling the fire without disruption.

Those within this outer cordon are advised to remain indoors and to close windows and doors.

There have been no reported injuries.

A Cumberland Council spokesperson added: “We urge residents to follow the advice of emergency services to evacuate if advised to do so.

“Working with partners, we have set up a reception centre to support people affected by the incident.

“The reception centre provides shelter, refreshments, practical help and updates for residents affected.”