The blaze caused a massive amount of damage

More than 100 firefighters attended the blaze at Strathclyde University's Scottish School of Sport Studies building in Glasgow.

There were about 40 students and staff at the gym complex on the Jordanhill campus when the fire broke out at 1830 GMT on Tuesday and all of them managed to get out safely.

At least 22 fire appliances attended the scene as well as police officers and an investigation unit.

Alarm sounded

Deputy fire master Brian Sweeney said a full investigation into the cause of the blaze was under way.

He said an area in the main gym, 60 metres by 14 metres, had been destroyed as well as three separate gyms.

"We have a full investigation team here who have already collected evidence and statements from firefighters first at the scene," he said.

A university spokesperson said: "It is believed the fire started in the changing room of the building, which was built in the 1960s.

People were evacuated from the gym

"Luckily the fire alarm sounded and 40 people who were using the gym got out safely."

A thick cloud of smoke filled the sky and flames could be seen coming from the building as the blaze took hold.

A student said offices used by Phd students, which were above the main gym hall, appeared to have been destroyed.

Lecturer Dr Bob Sharp said the fire was a heavy blow for staff and students who worked in the complex.

He said: "I'm desperate to get into my room, because there's 30 years of materials and resources and I sincerely hope that I have not lost everything.