South Wales Fire and Rescue Service sent a total of 16 appliances were sent to City Road in Roath, where crews tried to control the blaze for several hours on Thursday.

Assistance was requested from fire stations across south Wales, as far away as Barry, Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd , as well as Caerphilly , Penarth and multiple stations across the city.

The call was received by the fire service at around 6.12pm with five fire engines initially being sent to the scene.

A total of 51 firefighters were reported to be at the scene of the incident just after 7.30pm.

Ambulance crews were also at the scene and made their way to the building wearing breathing apparatus.

Just after 8pm, while the fire was being tackled, there were reports the roof of the two storey discount furniture warehouse had collapsed.

The street has remain closed off with people being advised to avoid the area. Residents nearby have also been advised to close all windows and doors.

Police warned last night that the incident could mean road closures in the area on Friday , while a fire investigation was due to begin at 10am on Friday.

As it happened