Morning:
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Residents of one of London's busiest roads were dramatically rescued today after a fierce blaze tore through their flats.
Five people were saved from the burning building as firefighters battled with the fire above a hairdresser's on the A406, the North Circular Road, in Palmers Green. A further 12 were evacuated from an adjacent property.
The road was closed to traffic in both directions while rescuers worked, leading togiant tailbacks during rush hour.
More than six fire engines arrived at 3.30am following numerous 999 calls. The first and second floors of the property were gutted.
A witness said: "The flames were so big they were spreading out across the road. There were residents on the street frantically waving, telling traffic to stop before the fire brigade got there."
Those evacuated were given temporary shelter on a double deck bus stopped by police.
An investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire.
