A HUGE blaze erupted at a block of London flats as horrified onlookers reported hearing screams from inside.
The inferno broke out on Hermitage Street, in Paddington, at around 8.45pm yesterday and 60 firefighters were called to battle the flames.
Terrified witnesses reported hearing screams from inside as fire crews raced to evacuate residents.
Shocking footage showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the evening skyline as flames ravaged apartments.
The London Fire Brigade worked with crews from Paddington, Kensington, North Kensington to tackle the blaze.
They used a 32 metre turntable ladder and a water tower to reach the huge inferno as it tore through the ninth floor.
It was brought under control by around 9.45pm and it is understood there were no injuries.
Members of the public are still being urged to avoid the area, while the cause of the fire remains unknown.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters are tackling a fire at a block of flats on Hermitage Street in Paddington.
“A flat on the ninth floor of the building is alight. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area whilst firefighters work to extinguish the fire.
“The Brigade’s Control Officers have received more than 10 calls about the fire. Crews from Paddington, Kensington, North Kensington and surrounding fire stations are at the scene.
“A 32 metre turntable ladder is also in use as a water tower to help fight the fire from height. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.”
In an update a spokesperson said: “The fire has been brought under control but members of the public are asked to avoid the area whilst firefighters work to fully extinguish the fire.
“The Brigade’s Control Officers received more than 10 calls about the fire. The Brigade was called at 8.46pm and the fire was brought under control by 9.43pm.
“Crews from Paddington, Kensington, North Kensington and surrounding fire stations remain at the scene. A 32 metre turntable ladder has also been in use as a water tower to help fight the fire from height. The cause of the fire is under investigation.”