Two people taken to hospital after major fire at nuclear submarine shipyard in Cumbria

A significant fire has broken out at a nuclear submarine shipyard in Cumbria.

Videos and pictures posted on social media show flames and smoke billowing from BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness.

Two people were taken to hospital but Cumbria Police said there were no casualties after the fire broke out at around 12.30am on Wednesday.

The force said the response to the fire is ongoing and that people were evacuated from Devonshire Dock Hall.

It added there was no nuclear risk.

Cumbria Police also advised people living nearby to "remain indoors" and to "keep doors and windows closed".

BAE Systems is one of the world's biggest defence contractors.

It produces a huge array of military hardware and technology - including nuclear submarines, fighter jets, tanks and ships, as well as guns and ammunition.

It also builds type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy and makes electronic warfare systems for F-35 fighter jets.

The company's site in Barrow-in-Furness is where it constructs Astute and Dreadnought nuclear submarines for the Navy.

BAE Systems has built all but three of the Royal Navy's nuclear submarines since 1963.

Cumbria Fire Service and the Ministry of Defence have not yet responded to Sky's requests for comment.

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In April, an investigation was launched after an explosion at a different factory owned by BAE Systems.

No one was injured in the blast in Glascoed, Monmouthshire, South Wales.

(c) Sky News 2024: Two people taken to hospital after major fire at nuclear submarine shipyard in Cumbria