Firefighters tackle London rush-hour blaze

(Getty)

A large fire broke out this afternoon in central London, causing widespread traffic disruption.

Twelve fire engines and about 60 firefighters were sent to Breams Buildings, near Chancery Lane.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: "The roof area of the building is believed to be under refurbishment. Part of the fifth floor and part of the roof is alight."

He added: "There are reports of cylinders involved in the fire."

There was no report of anyone being trapped.

The offices, from which a large clouds of smoke were rising, are in an area widely used by legal firms and the building houses the Asylum and Immigration Tribunals service. Tribunal hearings due to be held tomorrow are being postponed.

Fleet Street and Fetter Lane are nearby and roads were sealed off.