Firefighters scrambled after massive fire breaks out outside Southampton's St Mary's Stadium just hours before match

Emergency services are at the scene of a major fire in Southampton, close to St Mary's Stadium. A disused warehouse is ablaze and the roof has collapsed, according to BBC News. The fire has filled the sky with smoke and the immediate area has been evacuated.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said: "Crews are currently attending a fire in Marine Parade Southampton. The initial call came in at 13:05. 

"The fire is affecting industrial units near St Mary’s football stadium. There are currently eight fire engines, two Aerial Ladder Platforms and other specialist vehicles in attendance.

"People in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke.

"Some roads local to the incident are closed and people are advised to avoid the area to allow movements of emergency vehicles."

Southampton are due to play Preston North End in the Championship on Wednesday in the Championship. It remains to be seen if the fixture will be affected by the blaze.