Firefighters are tackling a blaze which has broken out at a disused convent in East Sussex. <\/p>\n
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) were called to the College Of The Holy Child Jesus on Magdalen Road in St Leonards at about 17:00 BST.<\/p>\n
Thick plumes of smoke billowed through the sky as crews from several engines deal with the fire. There have been no reports of any injuries.<\/p>\n
A spokesperson for ESFRS has warned people living nearby to keep their doors and windows closed due to the thick black smoke rising from the building.<\/p>\n
“Please avoid the area as roads are being closed,” they added.<\/p>\n
Police and electricity operator UK Power Networks are also in attendance.<\/p>\n
It is believed the fire broke out on the third floor of the former Catholic college, which closed in 1976.<\/p>\n
It was later used as a language school before falling into disrepair, although its chapel remains Grade II listed.<\/p>\n
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