Huge blaze breaks out at London Leisure Center - 80 firefighters at the scene

Twelve fire engines and a reported 80 firefighters have been called to a fire at a leisure center in Highbury, north London, where part of the roof of a single story building is alight. 100 people have been evacuated.

"Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters have been called to a fire at a leisure centre in Highbury Crescent in Highbury," the London Fire Brigade spokesperson stated. 

“Part of the roof of the single-storey building is alight.

"Around 100 members of the public and staff left the building before the Brigade arrived. At this stage, there are no reports of any injuries.

“The Brigade was called at 1203.

“Fire crews from Islington, Holloway, Stoke Newington, Paddington and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.

“The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”

Photos and videos shared on social media show a large plume of smoke rising above the London skyline. The leisure center is located close to Arsenal FC's Emirates Stadium. 

According to north London newspaper, Islington Trubune, witnesses to the fire have described seeing around 20 people in swim wear evacuating the Highbury Leisure Center. 

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