Two major fires have broken within a short distance of each other in Dover.

Four fire engines were sent to tackle a blaze in a derelict building in Townwall Street, near East Cliff in the town and found the building well alight.

They had to wear breathing gear as they tackled the fire and carried out a full search of the property to make sure no one was inside.

It happened at around 5.30pm and no one is believed to have been injured.

Police were also been called to the scene and are assisting fire crews by diverting traffic away from the area.

Speaking at 9.30pm, a fire spokesman said: "Crews have made good progress and two fire engines remain in attendance while crews damp down remaining hotspots.

"There are no reported casualties.

"The cause of the fire is not yet known."

Not long after that fire had been put out, firefighters were sent to deal with a blaze at the former Karma Club in Adrian Street.

It broke out shortly after 8pm.

It is the third fire at the building, which suffered two suspected arson attacks in 2003, when it was known as the Nuage nightclub.

Sid Clarke, who works at the Best Western Hotel on the seafront, said: "I was walking up from the underpass from the seafront when I first saw the smoke.

"The fire turned out to be bigger than I thought."

Eyewitness Kevin Stewkesbury added: "I was driving past and stopped when I saw the fire.

"I am concerned that this is the second in the same evening."

Speaking of the York Street blaze, a fire spokesman said: "Four fire engines and a height vehicle are in attendance and crews are tackling a fire on the ground and first floors of the premises using hose reels and water from hydrants.

"There are no reported injuries.

"The cause of the fire is not yet known. Kent Police is also on the scene."