A FACTORY was evacuated last night after fire broke out in industrial machinery.

Five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the four-storey F D Sims Ltd complex in Shadsworth Business Park, Blackburn.

One building was badly-damaged by fire and two affected by heat.

Appliances were sent from Blackburn, Hyndburn and Darwen to the premises on Lions Drive.

The building was evacuated by the time they arrived around 7.10pm.

The company manufactures magnet winding wires and strips.

There were no injuries.

A Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Six firefighters used breathing apparatus entered the building to extinguish the flames.

"It affected industrial machinery including ovens and around 20 metres of ducting.

"Crews were there for more than three hours to ensure the building was safe.

"All staff were safely evacuated from the building."

The scene was reinspected this morning at 8am by fire officers