The blaze is understood to have started at an art gallery which faces Exeter Cathedral in Devon, but has now spread to the nearby Royal Clarence Hotel.

More than 100 firefighters, police and paramedics are at the scene of the fire, which began at about 5.20am on friday 28th october.

Desperate efforts are on-going to save hotel - which was built in 1769 and is credited as the first hotel in the country.

Historian Dr Todd Gray said the buildings were "hugely significant" as Beatrix Potter visited the hotel in 1892, looked out and said "what a fine view this is".

He said: "It was the place to be. It was where the anti-slavery people met in the 1700s and 1800s, this is where they planned abolition.

"It had a murkier past later on and it was where the fascists met in the 1930s. It's a key building for Exeter."

Dr Gray said the hotel was also the first to declare themselves as a hotel, before that they had inns.

He added: "I'm just hoping that they can contain it to the 18th Century top and not go further down. To lose this would be a great tragedy for Exeter.

"Hopefully the firemen will be able to pull off a miracle and save what is a very important building to Exeter and to millions of people over the years who pour into the close to have a look."

Witnesses, including the Canon of Exeter Cathedral Anna Norman Walker, said they could see "flying debris"

It is understood the fire broke out at Laura Ashley and the Castle Fine Art Gallery.

Crews initially thought they had it under control but later confirmed that it has spread to other venues on the Cathedral Green - including the historic Royal Clarence.

The hotel has been evacuated and all staff and residents are accounted for. There are no casualties

Let's do all we can to show our support and give thanks to all those involved.

All money raised will be given to Andrew Brownsword to distribute as they see fit.