Ten fire crews have been sent to tackle a huge blaze at a commercial unit.

Just after 2am on Saturday, fire appliances from several stations in Preston were deployed to Shepherd Street in Preston city centre.

The fire involved a derelict commercial building which was engulfed in flames by the time crews arrived.

The number of engines was quickly increased to ten, including the stinger and command unit from Blackburn. 

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "At 2.13am fire crews from Preston, Bamber Bridge, Fulwood and Penwortham responded to a fire on Shepherd Street in Preston.

"The fire involved a derelict commercial premises which was well alight when firefighters arrived.

"The number of fire engines was increased to ten to include the stinger and aerial ladder platform."

Crews tackled the fire using the aerial appliances, breathing apparatus and jets.

At 5.20am the fire was surrounded on all sides, with small pockets of smouldering being dampened down by firefighters.

The spokesperson added: "The number of fire engines at the scene is being reduced to two and an aerial ladder platform.

"These crews will remain in attendance to monitor hot spot areas."

It is thought some crews will remain at the scene throughout the day.