DOZENS of firefighters are on the scene of a major fire at a hotel in Newcastle.

The blaze broke out at the Caledonian Hotel, in Jesmond, at about 5.30pm today.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are on the scene in Osborne Road with seven fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, command support unit and two senior officers.

They are telling people to avoid to area and are advising residents to keep their windows and doors shut due to smoke levels. 

Police and the North East Ambulance Service are also in attendance, while a section of the road has been cordoned off. 

Onlookers have described flames shooting from the roof of the hotel, while plumes of smoke have been seen rising from the building.

Guests have been evacuated from the hotel.