Demolition workers have been evacuated from the stricken ferry Riverdance in Blackpool when a fire broke out on board.

The blaze which may have been ignited by a spark from cutting equipment, started in a tractor unit of a lorry in the hold of the ship, Lancashire Police said.

More than 20 firefighters were called to the scene on the beach at Anchorsholme at about 4.20am on Saturday.

Five fire engines and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's mobile fire station were deployed as workmen cutting up the ship, which ran aground in January, were led to safety.

Firefighters have since withdrawn from the burning vessel as the tide rises.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police: "No persons are reported to be injured and all workmen on the vessel were evacuated.

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Up to 30 contractors were working on board at the time and the fire may have been ignited by a spark from cutting equipment.

Heysham-based Hancock's Contractors Ltd began the first phase of dismantling the ferry earlier this month when they started removing cargo to balance the ship.

Twenty-three people, including four passengers, were rescued by the RAF on January 31 when the ferry was hit by a freak wave in 70mph winds as it crossed the Irish Sea and became grounded on the beach at Cleveleys