HUNDREDS of people have been evacuated from Bolton's Market Place Shopping Centre after a suspected deliberate fire.

Fire crews and police are responding to the blaze in The Vaults, within the town centre shopping arcade.

It is understood that a fire was started inside the men's toilets.

The Light Cinema was also evacuated.

READ MORE: Fire at Market Place which caused hundreds to flee 'started on a toilet roll holder'

 

Bolton North firefighter Dan Vickers said: "We were called to The Vaults at about 6.30pm.

"There has been a possible deliberate ignition inside the gents' toilets.

"The Light Cinema and market hall have been evacuated. There are large numbers of people outside the venue.

"The cause of the fire is under investigation."

Two crews from Bolton Central and one from Bolton North attended the scene.

Crews used one hose reel and breathing apparatus to tackle the blaze. They also used ventilation fans to clear smoke from the building.

Dozens of people have taken to social media about the incident.

One posted: "Hope everyone gets out safe and sound."

Another wrote: "Oh no not another hope everyone’s ok."

A third posted: "Hope no one was hurt."