A DEVASTATING fire at a furniture warehouse has engulfed a North-East town in smoke.

Ten fire engines from across the area were called to tackle the blaze, which broke out at Shields Interiors, in Whitby Street South, Hartlepool, at about 9am today.

More than 50 firefighters are tackling the blaze which looks to have completely destroyed the recently refurbished two-storey building.

The blaze is believed to have started at the rear of the second floor of the warehouse and plumes of smoke could be seen over town for more than two hours.