The London Assembly has sent its support to people in Paris following the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral.

Tony Arbour, the chairman of the London Assembly said their thoughts are with the people of Paris following the fire which broke out at the 850-year-old cathedral yesterday evening.

Mr Arbour said: “We watched in dismay as this great building which symbolised the heights of human achievement was ravaged by flames in a few short but devastating hours.

“We have no doubt that this magnificent structure will rise again, drawing on the same enduring spirit of resilience, hope and ambition that inspired Notre Dame’s original construction.

“In those efforts, the people of France can be assured of the support of Londoners. Notre Dame may not be part of our immediate landscape but is an essential landmark of our shared humanity.”

The huge fire which has destroyed the cathedral’s roof was finally extinguished 15 hours after it began in the French capital. Fire crews were called at 6.50pm local time (5.50pm BST).

The spire collapsed but the landmark’s main stone structure, including its two towers has survived.

The cause of the fire is not yet clear.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan also sent his support to the people of Paris.

Tweeting he said: “Heart-breaking scenes of Notre Dame cathedral in flames. London stands in sorrow with Paris today, and in friendship always.”