AN investigation is underway after an empty shop in Accrington caught fire earlier this morning.

An end-terrace property in Blackburn Road, formerly a second-hand shop was well ablaze and the fire spread through loft spaces of adjoining properties.

Six homes were evacuated and four people were treated at the scene by paramedics for the effects of smoke inhalation.

Around 30 firefighters on six fire engines, including a turntable ladder platform, were drafted in to deal with the incident, which was reported just after 8.30am.

Eight firefighters were breathing apparatus were required to tackle the fire at the nearest point and handheld water jets were used to bring the flames under control.

A Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said that the cause of the fire was yet to be determined.

Meanwhile traffic was also seriously delayed further along Blackburn Road after a road accident near the Old Mother Redcap pub on the outskirts of Oswaldtwistle.

Firefighters were originally told that two people may have been trapped in wreckage after a two-car collision, just after 9am.

Paramedics are said to have given first aid to a number of casualties at the scene but there are not thought to have been any serious injuries.

Vehicles were directed through the neighbouring estate while firefighters ensured the road was cleared of fuel and other debris.