Ayr Station Hotel on fire as huge explosion heard in historic building - live updates

dailyrecord.co.uk:

One of Ayr's most iconic buildings is engulfed in flames this evening after a fire broke out at the Station Hotel.Unrelenting flames can be seen licking up the tallest parts of the famous old building.The white sheets wrapped around the structure have also started melting.Eye-witnesses report hearing a huge explosion as the fire continues to spread.More to follow. Read next: Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown has urged to public to stay away from the scene.Roads surrounding the hotel have been closed by the emergency services.A replacement bus service has been put in place by ScotRail following the breakout of the fire.The train operator said that services would not be able to stop in Ayr "until it is safe to do so".Eye-witnesses have reported hearing a huge explosion from the scene of the blaze.A total of 13 fire crews are currently battling the flames at the historic building.A huge blaze has tore through the Station Hotel this evening with smoke being seen for miles.Flames have engulfed the crumbling Ayr building which is earmarked for demolition by council chiefs.Huge thick plumes of black smoke can be seen billowing out from the former Hotel which is currently entombed in white covering.