An investigation has been launched into the cause of a boat fire on the River Tees last night.

Fire investigators and Cleveland Police officers were at the site of the aftermath of the fire today (Tuesday September 20) after the blaze broke out on a boat called 'Ajax' last night.

Cleveland Fire Brigade sent three fire engines and a specialist water incident manager to deal with the fire at around 11pm.

The crew confirmed there were no people onboard the vessel, however they remained at the scene for several hours extinguishing the fire and attempting to protect the river from any potential pollutants.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 ImagesThe scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 Images (Image: R2 Images)

They were still at the scene this morning gathering evidence and ensuring the area was safe.

A spokesman for the Cleveland Fire Brigade said last night: "The fire has now been extinguished with swift, professional actions by the crews in attendance, they will now look to make the area safe before handing over."

Darlington and Stockton Times: The scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 ImagesThe scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 Images (Image: R2 Images)

Darlington and Stockton Times: The scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 ImagesThe scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 Images (Image: R2 Images)

Darlington and Stockton Times: The scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 ImagesThe scene of a boat fire on the River Tees Picture: R2 Images (Image: R2 Images)

Darlington and Stockton Times: Firefighters putting the fire out last night Picture: Cleveland Fire BrigadeFirefighters putting the fire out last night Picture: Cleveland Fire Brigade (Image: Cleveland Fire Brigade)

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