POLICE remain at the scene where a large fire took place at two shops in Kidderminster today.

Officers were alerted to the blaze at the junction of Worcester Street and Market Street by an officer on patrol at 13:16.

Levines furniture store and the British Heart Foundation buildings were alight and fire officers had just arrived at the scene.

A 100m cordon was put in place and police continue to support the fire brigade with cordons and road closures.

A number of buildings have also been evacuated including Wilkinsons and Iceland.  It is not thought anyone was injured during the incident but emergency services remain at the scene and the cordon and road closures around the area a expected to remain in place overnight.

Inspector Paul Crumpton said: "This was a major fire in the centre of town but, thankfully, it appears no-one has been injured.

"The area will remain closed off for some time and I would advise people to avoid the area where possible.

"Police are working with fire officers at the scene and will continue to liaise as to the cause of the fire."

* Road closures at this time include junctions at New Road and the Worcester Road island as well as Market Street, Corporation Street and Green Street and Oxford Street. People should listen to traffic announcements of local radio for regular updates.