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George IV Fire LIVE: Emergency services attend fire in the Edinburgh Old Town as smoke pours out near iconic Elephant House Cafe

Emergency services are in attendance at a fire in the Capital’s historic Old Town as George IV Bridge is closed off.
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George IV Bridge Fire LIVE: Emergency services attend fire in Edinburgh Old Town

Speaking to the Herald the Elephant House’s owner David Taylor said; “ At the moment we know nothing but there will certainly be smoke and water damage so we will have to close though I dont know for how long.”

They added that it is thought that the floors of the adjacent coffee shop have collapsed.

Scottish Fire and Rescue have said that this is a level four fire - and ask that people follow Police Scotland guidelines.

We have been told that the fire is still burning as the firefighters continue their work.

Another resident has spoken to our reporter Beth Murray who said that they believed the fire started in the Elephant House Cafe.

Our flat is underneath and to the right [of the Elephant House.]

The flat is not on fire but very smokey.

The firefighters are inside, I don’t know exactly what they’re doing but they’re inside.

George IV Bridge fire: Pictures show extent of large blaze in Edinburgh's Old Town

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Beth Murray, our reporter on the scene said:

“There’s lots of confused looking residents and tourists I would assume wondering around, trying to figure out how to get by.

“There’s a haze in the area and the smell of smoke is really strong.”

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