Services across Barrow have been disrupted in the aftermath of a devastating fire which broke out last night.

The House of Lords in Abbey Road was reduced to a smoking ruin in spite of the brave efforts of more than 60 firefighters.

As a result people have been temporarily displaced from their homes, part of a key road remains closed and bus routes have been altered.

Here is what you need to know.

Asbestos:

Rumours circulated during the night of a risk posed to the public if there was any asbestos inside the burning building.

Cumbria County Council have said there is a very low risk of any asbestos contamination, and they have had no reports of any danger from emergency services at the site.

The only precaution the council have issued is that the public should stay away from the building as there is a risk of it collapsing.

Roads:

A section of Abbey Road has been cordoned off by police between Dalkeith Street and the Duke Street roundabout.

Initially the road was closed between Hartington Street and Hindpool Road, but these restrictions are no longer in effect.

Bus services:

Busses travelling to and from Barrow will be diverted through Rawlinson Street and Greengate Street to the town hall.

Stagecoach expect the disruption to last for at least the remainder of today and potentially through part of Friday.

For updates throughout the day please see the Stagecoach Twitter account @StagecoachCNL

Emergency assistance:

Residents were evacuated from the vicinity of the fire by emergency services last night.

A welfare centre was set up at The Forum for anyone who had to leave their homes, where free tea and coffee have been provided.

St Mark's Church in Rawlinson Street, Barrow, has been open since 10am to provide toiletries and clothes to families and crisis.

Cumbria County Council statement:

"Residents who were evacuated last night due to the fire on Abbey Road have been given advice about returning to their properties.

"Abbey Road is closed between Dalkeith Street and Duke Street and is likely to remain closed for some time. Members of the public and local residents are strongly advised to avoid the area due to the ongoing risk of building collapse.

"However, agencies are aware that some people are returning to their homes near the site of the fire.

"People who have returned to their homes in Hawke Street are urged not to go into their rear yards or back street. This is because the building is still unstable, and if the rear wall were to collapse it could potentially affect the rear yards of the properties.

"Residents who live in the affected area of Abbey Road and want to return home will be supported by Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service."

For updates on any further disruption visit www.nwemail.co.uk