Firefighters called to tackle South Shields blaze causing Dean Road diversions

Emergency Services were called out to the Dean Road this week after reports came in about a fire in a property.

The road was blocked off while the blaze was tackled as vehicles were diverted to alternative routes.

Crews attended the scene 'within minutes' to tackle the fire with more than 20 firefighters called.

Firefighters spent almost an hour at the premises until the fire was fully put out. After a thorough search no people were found to be in the property and the fire crew reported no casualties.

On the incident, a Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue service statement read: "We can confirm that we were called just after 7:30pm on 8th August about a fire at a commercial premises on Dean Road in South Shields.

"Five appliances from across the service area were in attendance in a matter of minutes to bring the blaze under control.

"At its height over 20 firefighters were working to extinguish the fire.

Read South Tyneside's news on the go with our free email newsletters - bringing the headlines to your inbox. Catch up on the day's news and sport and enjoy even more from your Gazette. Visit our website here to find out more and sign up.

 "It was initially reported that people were in the building, however after a thorough search no persons were involved.

"We want say a huge thank you to our fire control and firefighters for their quick and professional response to this incident.

"The fire is now extinguished and our crews left the scene at 8:35pm."

READ MORE: Hebburn salon celebrates 20 years of business