Major blaze at school as loud explosions reported

Firefighters are tackling a major fire at a school in a seaside town with explosions being reported.

Ten fire engines have been dispatched to The Academy in Selsey, near Chichester, West Sussex, after the blaze broke out at around 8am on Sunday.

Crews from neighbouring Hampshire were also tasked to tackle the flames as stacks of thick, acrid smoke poured from the building.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service described it as a "major" fire amid reports that loud explosions could be heard in the area.

The Academy is a mixed school for pupils aged 11 to 16. It was opened by the Duke of Norfolk in September 1963 as Manhood Secondary Modern School.

The county fire and rescue service said: "People in vicinity of smoke from Selsey school fire advised to stay clear of smoke, stay indoors and keep windows closed."

More than 60 calls were received by the Sussex control room about the blaze, the fire service added.