Fire breaks out at former Catholic convent featuring Grade II-listed chapel as crews tackle blaze

Emergency crews rushed to a disused convent in East Sussex on Thursday evening after a fire erupted at the site.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service received the initial alert at 5.03pm regarding the blaze at the former College of the Holy Child Jesus on Magdalen Road in St Leonards.

Dense smoke was visible across the town as flames took hold of the derelict building.

By 5.30pm, six fire engines had been dispatched to the scene, accompanied by a water carrier and senior officers.

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Joint Fire Control received numerous calls from members of the public reporting the incident. No injuries have been reported.

Firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus are using main jets to combat the blaze, which is concentrated on the building's third floor.

Police officers are on site assisting with traffic management and crowd control measures.

UK Power Networks personnel have also attended the incident.

An ESFRS spokesperson said: "Please avoid the area as roads are being closed."

Hastings Borough Council confirmed it is aware of the situation and coordinating with emergency services.

The fire service has urged local residents to shut all doors and windows due to the thick black smoke billowing from the property.

The former Catholic college ceased operations in 1976 after serving as an educational institution for many years.

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Following its closure, the building was converted into a language school before eventually falling into a state of disrepair.

Despite the site's deterioration, its chapel retains Grade II listed status.

Hastings Borough Council stated: "We are aware of the fire at the former Convent, Magdalen Road and are working closely with the emergency services."

Surrounding roads have been shut to allow crews to work safely.

Residents in the vicinity have been advised to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution against the heavy smoke.

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