Update: 2100 hrs

Fire is now under control and largely extinguished although crews are expected to remain on site dealing with hot-spots for much of the night.

Assistant Divisional Officer Stephen Pritchard, incident commander, said: “Crews arrived to find a well developed fire in a derelict building. Thanks to their hard work and professionalism we have managed to get on top of what was a large fire very quickly.

“We will remain at the scene for a few hours turning over and damping down and ensuring that all hot-spots have been dealt with.”

Update: 1800 hrs..Statement from Essex Fire and Rescue Service

Firefighters are tackling a fire in a single storey derelict building, measuring 30 by 40 metres. The building was formerly the Maypole Social Club.

On arrival the incident commander reported that the building was well alight.

Crews are using two main jets, one hose reel jet and two ground monitors to control and tackle the blaze.

There are no reports of any casualties.

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Update: All three emergency services are at the scene of the fire at the disused Maypole Club in Harlow.

A number roof fire units are parked on the London Road. That road is shut off.

The A414 is open but traffic is slow as people look at the scene.

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THERE are reports that a fire has swept through the Maypole Club in Mark Hall. The fire was reported at just after 4pm on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon.

The fire was reported at just after 4pm on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon.