Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been called to a fire at a cafe with flats above on Walworth Road in Walworth.

Most of the ground floor is alight as well as a small part of the basement and first floor.

Station Manager Pete Cox, who is at the scene, said: “When crews arrived they were faced with a lot of thick, black smoke.

“They are working hard at the scene to bring the fire under control.

“Walworth Road has been closed and the surrounding roads are very busy with traffic, so we would advise drivers to avoid the area if possible.”

The Brigade was called at 0742. Fire crews from Old Kent Road, Lambeth, Peckham, Dowgate, and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.

The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.