A building has crumbled to the ground in Brighton after witnesses reported hearing "an explosion". The building collapsed this morning, with the cause remaining unknown at this time. 

Dramatic pictures show the roof of the building in Ryde Road has completely caved in, leaving the interior exposed. Three fire engines attended the scene and the fire service called out a gas company to check if there had been a gas explosion.

Gas workers have since confirmed that the building collapse was not caused by a gas explosion.

No casualties have been reported and firefighters remain at the scene.

Horror images show pieces of the crumbled building strewn in piles across the ground. Shocked residents reported hearing a loud groaning noise before they noticed a massive plume of dust and smoke as the building fell.

Locals have suggested that the building was formerly used as a workshop. 

One local told The Argus the scene resembled something out "a disaster movie."

The local added: "Someone said there had been someone living there until recently but not now. It sounded like an explosion when it happened. It's a scene of devastation."

The structure has been left in tatters, with the building seemingly buckled inwards on itself.

A spokesperson for the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service stated: "Three fire engines and three officers were in attendance at Ryde Road, Brighton, responding to a building collapse. Firefighters remained on scene between 8.04 and 10.15 to ensure public safety."