A cafe where JK Rowling wrote early Harry Potter manuscripts is feared to have been hit by a major fire in central Edinburgh.

       One person has been taken to hospital with the large blaze at George IV Bridge in the Scottish capital closing several roads in the city centre.

       Images from the scene show smoke pouring from a branch of Patisserie Valerie, next door to the The Elephant House cafe which was made famous as a place where Ms Rowling wrote much of her early Harry Potter series. Several properties have been affected, emergency services said.

       Firefighters were called to the scheme at 6:18 this morning.

       A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "Operations Control mobilised nine appliances and two height vehicles to the scene where firefighters are tackling a fire affecting a number of properties.

       "Crews are still in attendance."