In pictures: TV tower fire

The Ostankino tower, the second highest free-standing structure in the world and one of Moscow's most well-known landmarks, burns after a fire broke out more than 400 metres above ground.

A Russian fire brigade helicopter inspects the fire which broke out 100m above the tower's 340m-high observation level

The fire spreads as firefighters have difficulty reaching the blaze

On the ground, high altitude rescuers belonging to the Emergency Situations Ministry prepare for action

Two young boys among thousands of Moscow residents who look on in amazement as smoke pours from the famous tower

By late afternoon the fire was burning out of control and there were fears the top section might fall

As darkness fell the future of the Ostankino tower remained uncertain