Major fire damages Cork convent

Garda traffic diversions are in place and the public are asked to avoid the area.

Cork County Fire Service was alerted to the blaze at 4.07pm with Fire Brigade units from Skibbereen, Schull and Bantry all scrambled to the scene at North Street close to the town centre. Picture: Andy Gibson

A major fire has broken out at the former Convent of Mercy in Skibbereen, extensively damaging the building and causing the church roof to collapse.

Residents in the immediate vicinity are being asked to remain indoors and close all doors and windows.