The roof of a Leicester church that has stood for more than 160 years has been left severely damaged after a major fire broke out overnight.

Firefighters raced to St Andrew’s Church in Jarrom Street after receiving multiple emergency calls shortly after 11pm on Tuesday.

At the height of the incident, eight fire engines and two specialist high-reach appliances were sent to tackle the flames as thick smoke billowed across parts of the city.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the church to fight the fire and stop it spreading to other parts of the historic building.

Thankfully, no injuries have been reported and all people have been accounted for.

Firefighters remain at the scene, although the response has now been scaled back. Engineers are also working with utility companies to isolate gas and electricity supplies in the area.

Several nearby roads have been closed while emergency services continue their work, with motorists being urged to avoid the area where possible.

In a social media update, the fire service said the blaze produced a large plume of smoke visible across Leicester. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Leicestershire Police confirmed it was called to the incident shortly before midnight and said investigations into the cause are ongoing. A detailed examination of the scene and the structure of the building will take place once it is safe to do so.

St Andrew’s Church was built in 1862 and is an Anglo-Catholic parish within the Diocese of Leicester.

Residents living nearby have been advised to keep doors and windows closed as a precaution.

The fire service has also used the incident to remind people to take extra care during the current hot and dry weather.

A spokesperson said warm conditions mean fires can start more easily and spread rapidly, both in urban areas and the countryside.