Former factory destroyed in fire

A former Tyneside factory has been destroyed in a fire.

More than 40 firefighters were involved in the incident at the Baker Perkins factory on the Bedewell Industrial Estate, in Hebburn, South Tyneside.

The fire started in an office at around 1900 GMT on Thursday and spread to the roof. The entire building and its contents were destroyed.

The premises were being used for storage by various firms. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

Firefighters had to punch holes in the roof of the building, which was made of metal panels, for ventilation.

They also had to cut metal shutter doors to gain access to the building.

It took four hours to bring the fire under control.