Explosions heard as firefighters tackle 'deliberate' blaze at Selsey school (PHOTO)

A secondary school has been destroyed this morning after a huge blaze ripped through the building - just two weeks before pupils were due to return following their summer holidays, Daily Mail reported.

More than 75 firefighters are currently battling the devastating fire which started just before 8am this morning.

Witnesses have described 40ft flames and clouds of smoke billowing hundreds of feet into the air from The Academy in Selsey, West Sussex.

The smoke can be seen from several miles away, and there have been reports of 'loud explosions' at the scene.

Crews from West Sussex Fire and Rescue service and Hampshire Fire and Rescue are attending the fire.

There are currently 10 fire engines there with around 50 firefighters battling to put out the blaze on School Lane.

Fire crews from neighbouring Hampshire were also at the scene at the seaside town, near Chichester, and a spokesman for the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: 'It seems to be getting bigger.

'Initially we sent two fire engines and then we sent another one. We've got about 15 firefighters there and an aerial ladder platform.

'Some people won't be going back to school.'

According to witnesses, the fire broke out in the playing fields in the school's sports area, but spread quickly.

Police are warning people to stay away as there is asbestos in the air, according to one onlooker.