Major fire breaks out as blaze rips through London’s historic Somerset House

Around 100 firefighters are reported to be tackling the blaze

The force said that 15 fire engines have turned out to the blaze so far, with around 100 firefighters on the scene.

"The brigade's control officers have taken over 10 calls reporting the fire, with the first received at 11.59am," they said in a statement.

"Crews from Soho, Dowgate, Islington and surrounding fire stations are attending the scene."

The cause of the fire is reported to be unknown.

Somerset House is an arts venue, and was due to be holding a breakdancing event on Saturday.

"Owing to a fire in one small part of Somerset House, the site is currently closed," the venue wrote on their X account.

"London Battle and other events today will not take place. We apologise for any inconvenience."

London Ambulance Service has asked businesses and homes in the area to keep their windows shut, and for people to avoid the area due to the heavy smoke.