FIREFIGHTERS are battling a huge fire at a derelict hotel in Newquay.

Multiple fire crews are attending the blaze at the former Hotel California building in Pentire Crescent, which started shortly before 4pm.

Ten fire appliances along with breathing apparatus support, two water carriers, command support and two aerial ladder platforms are at the scene. The fire is being fought from the exterior of the building following the roof collapsing and missing floorboards.

Police have closed the road leading into Penmere Drive and a large crowd has gathered to watch the firefighters battle the blaze.

Two young boys cycling their bikes outside the hotel spotted the fire and neighbours called the emergency services.

One said: “We saw a puff smoke and then the windows started exploding. Then massive puffs of smoke started coming out.”

The Hotel California, which overlooks the Gannel Estuary, has 68 bedrooms and a bowling alley.

The hotel closed three years ago and is being developed into 20 apartments and four houses.

Resident Emma Burnett said: “It is a very old hotel. Very dated and therefore there is old carpet and wood in there. There is an original dancefloor, bowling alley and was designed as the Hotel California concept. It is very ornate but is now dated. I think work was underway ahead of the hotel being demolished.”

A spokesperson for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: “The original call stated smoke was coming from windows in the building, which is three storeys and measures 50 x 30 metres.

“The incident has been split into four sectors, and 12 breathing apparatus, six jets and one hose reel jets were in use at 18:51. Services to the building have been isolated. At 20:49 the building was confirmed as well alight.

"We have multiple resources in attendance."

A spokesperson for Newquay Community Fire Station said: “There is a significant fire at a derelict hotel. Please avoid the area due to the large amount of fire appliances that are required to deal with the incident.”

Devon and Cornwall Police advised residents to close their windows due to the smoke.