A POLICE and fire investigation has been launched following a blaze at a derelict building in Ramsgate town centre.

At the height of the fire on Saturday night an estimated 40 firefighters from the three main Thanet stations, Canterbury and Deal tackled the blaze.

Smoke was first spotted coming from an outbuilding and a fire was then reported in the main body of the former adult education centre in Chapel Place Lane.

The road was closed and neighbouring properties were evacuated. Initial reports suggested a person was trapped in the main building but no-one was found.

The first fire crews arrived shortly after 10.40pm and were at the scene until 4am on Sunday.