Local councillor thanks fire brigade after blaze at historic Deptford school

Commenting on tonight's fire at the historic Simpson Street School building in Deptford, local Lib Dem councillor for Millfield Niall Hodson said:

"A big thank you goes from people in Millfield and across Sunderland for fighting to save this beautiful and important part of Sunderland's history.

"It's one of the last remaining historic buildings in Deptford, and there was a fight to save it from demolition when plans for the new dual carriageway that is currently under construction through the area were drawn up.

"It's such a shame to see Simpson Street school on fire. I hope it can be saved and that Sunderland Council can do everything in its power to see it restored to its former glory and a use found for the building so it can continue to be enjoyed by the people of our city in the years and decades to come."