THREE fire units from Cork County Fire Service have rushed to the scene of a “serious” fire in Skibbereen this evening.

Crews from Skibbereen, Schull and Bantry are tackling the blaze at a former convent in North St in Skibbereen, Co Cork.

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A hydraulic platform is at the scene trying to settle the blaze.

Cork County Fire Service have asked the public to avoid the area.

Traffic diversions are also in place to assist the firefighters in beating the blaze.

Gardai have said a number of residents in the area have been evacuated from the scene – and will be rehoused for the night.

Cork County Fire Service tweeted: “Fire Service units from Skibbereen, Schull and Bantry are currently at a serious fire at a former Convent in North St in Skibbereen.

“Traffic diversions are in place and people are being asked to avoid the area.”

A garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí are currently at scene of a fire at the former Convent in North Street in Skibbereen. 

“Fire services continue to bring the fire under control and a number of people have been evacuated from the scene who live in the houses that are adjacent to the premises. 

“No persons were injured and the residents of the houses have been housed for the night.

“Investigations ongoing.”

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Cork, Ireland – The Sun