FIREFIGHTERS rushed to Weymouth Pavilion after reports of a fire.

A total of five engines and a support vehicle were on the scene accompanied by a police and ambulance personnel.

The building was evacuated and crowds lined the streets leading to the theatre as the smell of smoke filled the air.

It is alleged that a fire was started in the men's toilets.

A security guard said: “A fire is developing in the building and we are bringing in equipment to deal with it.”

Police set up a cordon to keep people at a safe distance while fire crews worked in the building.

Olympic ambassador Alison Flaherty, 53, from Weymouth, “There’s definitely lots of action going on today.

“It’s a shame about the fire but everyone’s really positive.

“We don’t know what’s happened but it won’t spoil the day.”

A spokeswoman for Dorset Police said: “Police were called at around 4.20pm to a report of a small fire at Weymouth and Portland Borough Council ’s Pavilion theatre.

“Officers attended to assist Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, helping to move crowds away from the location using a cordon and the building itself was evacuated for a short time. The cordon was lifted and occupants allowed back inside at 5.30pm.

“Dorset Police is working with Dorset Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause of the fire.”