Church building wrecked by fire

A conference was due to be held in the building at the weekend.

A former bingo hall, now used as a church, will probably have to be demolished after being gutted by fire.

Firefighters were called to the Victorian building in Horninglow Road, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, during the early hours.

Crews will remain at the scene for the rest of the day dampening down. At least one of the walls is thought to be in danger of collapsing.

The building has been used by Christian International Missionaries.

At least 250 people had been expected to attend a conference there at the weekend but church leaders say they will try and find another venue.

Part of the road is still closed to traffic and diversions are in place.