SIX fire engines were called to a large blaze at a former North-East college tonight.
Thirty five fire fighters attended the incident at Shiney Row College, on Success Road, near Houghton-le-Spring.
The blaze broke out shortly before 6.30pm and could be seen for miles around.
Many people took to social media, posting photos and video of the fire.
Martin Hood said: “Smoke I see from my window turns out to be my old college at Shiney Row. Closed months ago and due to be demolished but can’t help feeling sad.”
The building, a campus of Sunderland College, closed last year and plans are being drawn up to replace it with housing.
A Tyne and Wear Fire Service spokesperson said: “Six pumping appliances, one aerial ladder water tower, one command unit and support pump, and three duty officers are in attendance.
“The former college building, which is 40m by 80m, is well alight.”
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