SHOP sprinklers appear to have stopped a more serious fire developing in a city centre shopping arcade.

Firefighters were called to Ryman's Stationer's store in Friary Walk, the Crowngate Centre, Worcester in the early hours of the morning after reports of smoke.

Two city-based fire engines and a fire officer from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service were turned out.

A back-up fire engine from Worcester also later assisted.

A fire brigade spokeswoman said: "The fire was in basement and involved stationary.

"Internal sprinklers activated and aided the extinguishing of the fire.

"The sprinkler system was then isolated, and two firefighters with breathing gear and a hose reel went in to the store."

The fire was put out, but firefighters reported flooding in the basement area.