POLICE wearing masks are continuing to evacuate Sauchiehall Street shoppers and businesses crews tackle the flames.

Reports have suggested asbestos could be involved in the blaze, which is believed to have started in the ground floor of Victoria's nightclub, raising fears the smoke could pose health risks.

One eyewitness said the smoke changing from black to yellow was indicative that cladding was involved in the fire.

A doctor was at the scene said: “This material is not, at all, something I’m comfortable with people breathing in.

“I would like to see the cordon much, much bigger to ensure people aren’t standing around in awe of the blaze.

“It’s far too early, I’m sure, for any of the emergency services to determine exactly how toxic the smoke is but it’s common knowledge that smoke inhalation is what kills the majority of people in fires. There’s a reason for that.

“If you are out and about in Glasgow today, don’t stand around filming this. Get away from it.”

Victoria's nightclub is said to have been undergoing refurbishment work with plans to build a hotel next to it.

One eyewitness said: “A policeman came up to me while I was filming and told me to move.

“He said it’s confirmed asbestos and they’ve all been told to put masks on.

“He also told us to get out of it going downwind.”