26 November 2011 Last updated at 11:13 ET

Derby Hippodrome theatre damaged in fire

Firefighters from six stations tackled the blaze on Green Lane

An investigation has begun into a fire which damaged a listed theatre in Derby.

Crews from six stations were called to the fire at the Hippodrome in Green Lane at about 3:30 GMT. Fifteen people were evacuated from nearby homes.

Due to concerns about the building's safety officers would not be able to enter it for a number of days, Derbyshire Police said.

The area around the derelict Grade II-listed theatre remains closed.

Stephen McLernon, from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "When the initial crews arrived they found a rapidly escalating fire in the derelict property and ascertained that they needed more resources.

"At the height of the fire we had nine appliances and 50 firefighters."

Kelly Clarke, one of the residents told to leave her home, said: "When I came out of the house all I could see was the smoke on top of the building and then just bright orange where the tips of the flames could be seen."

As a result of the fire and road closures the homecoming parade by the 9th/12th Royal Lancers had to be re-routed as it was due to travel along Green Lane.