FAMILIES were forced to flee their homes after a disused social club caught fire following a suspected arson attack.

The Crewe North Ward Workingmen's Club and Institute, Richmond Road, caught fire just before 6pm yesterday.

Six homes nearby were evacuated as a precaution.

Police also closed off entry to the road as firefighters battled the blaze at the two-storey detached building.

Firefighters from Crewe, Congleton, Sandbach, Middlewich, Winsford and Holmes Chapel attended the blaze, which saw flames billowing out through the windows and thick black smoke engulfing the area.

The flames were under control by about 9pm.

Housekeeper Bethany Buckley, aged 34, from Richmond Road, said: "I saw the fire and there were just big flames coming out of it and so much thick smoke."

Cheshire Police said the force was working with the fire service, as it is believed the blaze was started deliberately.

Investigations were continuing today.

Workers from National Grid were also in attendance as a precaution, in case the area's gas supply needed shutting off.

There were reports of some homes in the area being left without electricity as the fire took hold.

Terry Kidd, aged 52, from Haslington, was the club's keyboard player for 18 years.

He said: "It's knocked me to be honest, as it was a good club in its day."