The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service have been mobilised to reports of a large fire in Yarmouth this afternoon (Tuesday).
Firefighters from Freshwater, Newport and Cowes are currently responding to the incident which is believed to have broken out on Quay Street.
Island Echo has been told plumes of black smoke can be seen billowing into the sky from a commercial premises.
The Incident Command Unit and Aerial Ladder Platform from Newport are also responding to the incident, alongside a fire officer.
The alarm was raised at approximately 15:15.
UPDATE @ 16:00 – It has been confirmed the fire started to the rear of Salty’s Bar & Restaurant between the George Hotel and Wightlink.
Breathing Apparatus (BA) wearers have entered the building to tackle the fire, removing furniture in the process.
Multiple hose reels are being utilised with water being pulled from a nearby hydrant. Residents may experience a drop in water pressure or discolouration while the incident is ongoing.
4 fire appliances are now in attendance including 2 from Newport, 1 from Freshwater and 1 from Cowes.
Quay Street has been closed and cordons have been established in the area with pedestrians diverting locally.
It is currently unknown as to whether there has been any damage to Yarmouth Castle or other nearby buildings.
UPDATE @ 16:50 – Fire control has confirmed the fire broke out in the kitchen of Salty’s.
6 breathing apparatus (BA) and 3 hose reel jets have been used to bring the fire under control.
Crews are expected to leave the scene shortly.
UPDATE @ 18:00 – Crews have now stood down from the incident.
Substantial damage has been caused to the rear of the premises, in which window frames could be seen well alight.
Island Echo understands nobody has been injured in the fire and nor was there anyone inside at the time.
UPDATE WEDNESDAY – It has been confirmed that the fire appears to have begun in an office, caused by an electrical fault. The fire spread to the kitchen and a toilet.
2 Fire Appliances from Newport, one from Freshwater, one from Cowes , Did Yarmouth attend , it was their Ground ???
Does it matter?
Yes , When minutes count in a Fire Situation, to find that the nearest Fire Station is not available it can have disastrous results, this is beginning to be the norm with the fire service through out the country , one of the main reasons that we are hearing of more serious fires .Cut backs in Fire Service Cover matter
They were not available
Good point
Well done to the fire service hats off to you guys
Probably off the run as not enough crew available again.
Sad to hear Nicky is a strong lady she will get business up and running again well done to all emergency services
That reminds me I must renew my property insurance!