A well-known Leicester landmark has been badly damaged by a huge fire.

Almost 100 firefighters were called to the disused Roxy Bingo and Social Club on Fullhurst Avenue at around 2140 GMT on Thursday.

Fire engines were called in from all over the county to help and nearby homes and a fast food restaurant had to be evacuated.

It is not known at the moment how the fire started.

There were two platform ladders pouring in gallons of water Jeff Faulkner, eyewitness

A total of 90 firefighters arrived in 13 engines to find smoke billowing from the roof of the three-storey building.

They came from as far away as Hinckley and Coalville, with several special vehicles called in.

Jeff Faulkner, who owns a butchers shop opposite the hall, says it was an amazing sight.

'Flames leaping'

"The roof was well alight. The engines were all around the area.

"There were two platform ladders pouring in gallons of water trying to stop the fire.

"The flames were leaping quite high out of the roof."

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

The art deco building was opened as a cinema in the 1930s.

It was later used as a bingo hall and closed in March 2000.