Firefighters tackle blaze at historic hotel

ALMOST 60 firefighters were tackling a blaze at a historic hotel today.

• 55 firefighters are said to be at the scene

The fire broke out at the 18th Century Star and Garter Hotel in Linlithgow, West Lothian around 7am.

Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said 55 firefighters were at the scene and that the building had been evacuated.

A spokesman said: "At 7.04 this morning we were called out to the incident, and we attended the Star And Garter Hotel in the High Street in Linlithgow.

"We are now dealing with a well-developed fire which appears to have started in a first-floor linen cupboard.

"The fire has spread upwards into the second floor and roof space. Five residents were safely evacuated and there's currently no reports of any injuries.

"We've got eight pumping appliances and two height appliances and approximately five support vehicles, with approximately 55 firefighters on the scene at the minute."