Inquiry into library blaze begun

Roads around the library were closed

A blaze at Manchester's iconic Central Library has been brought under control and an investigation has been launched into its cause.

Emergency services were called to the building at St Peter's Square in the city centre on Friday evening.

More than 50 firefighters tackled the fire, which is believed to have begun in the basement of the library.

The library, on Mount Street, was closed at the time and police said all members of staff were located.

Mount Street and Peter Street were closed while firefighters tackled the fire but both streets had been reopened by 2230 BST.

The Central Library is one of Manchester's most famous landmarks.

The basement area is largely given over to an auditorium and houses the Library Theatre, as well as the theatre cafe.