FIREFIGHTERS rescued a rough sleeper from a major blaze started deliberately at a disused nightclub in Bradford city centre earlier today.

The man was found asleep in one of the buildings at the rear of the former Mode nightclub, near the Alhambra Theatre in Morley Street.

At its peak, 45 firefighters from stations across the district, including Bradford, Fairweather Green, Odsal and Cleckheaton, were at the scene.

The fire service have confirmed they are treating the fire as deliberate ignition.

It happened just after 5.30am. Crews arrived to see smoke pouring out from the eaves and roofs of a complex layout of buildings all linked to the club.

Crews used 20 breathing apparatus, four hose reels and two large jets to tackle the incident. Police are now investigating the cause.

The man who was led to safety did not need any medical attention.