A huge fire has destroyed a large derelict building on Lochgelly’s Bank Street.

A significant emergency response swung into action on Friday afternoon around 1.30pm, with atleast three fire engines plus a height appliance tackling the blaze. Streets around the area have been closed and neighbouring businesses and homes evacuated.

The building had been derelict for a number of years, having previously been the FFDR business offering fire and flood protection solutions. Locals will remember the building had a previous life as the bustling ‘Cinema Deluxe’.

Dramatic video and images circulating on social media had locals concerned, with thick black smoke rising hundreds of metres above the town.

Images also appear to show damage to the neighbouring St Andrew’s Church, which had undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment in recent years. The exterior of the building appears to have suffered damage from the proximity of the flames nearby.

Roads in the area remain closed and atleast 20 firefighters continue to battle the flames to prevent further damage to property in the area.

This fire is another example of the need to retain Lochgelly’s fire crews at their current staffing levels, rather than reduce staffing and appliances at the station.