By Saul Cooke-Black

SEVEN fire crews were called to a major fire at a former docks building in Bakers Quay, Gloucester, this evening.

Units from across the county were mobilised after the fire service received more than 100 calls reporting the incident.

The first call came in at 6.47pm.

A specialist high velocity pump and two aerial appliances were used to help put out the blaze.

It happened near to the Gloucester Fanzone where thousands had gathered to watch England V Australia in the Rugby World Cup.

Firefighters had to work at a distance because the building was collapsing.

The fire is now out but fire crew are still at the scene. A section of the building has collapsed, the fire service confirmed.

St Ann Way westbound is closed due to the fire between the A430 Trier Way and Hempsted Lane.

Police are advising residents to avoid the towpaths on either side of the canal and to stay away from the building as it is unsafe.