FIREFIGHTERS RUSH TO SANDOWN AS FIRE BREAKS OUT AT OCEAN HOTEL – AGAIN

Fire crews have rushed to the derelict Ocean Hotel in Sandown this evening (Monday) following reports of a fire. Crews from Sandown, Newport and the Aerial Ladder Platform from Ryde were called to the scene shortly after 19:00, with officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary joining them quickly after. Firefighters have used ladders to gain access to the 2nd floor of the property where it is believed the fire has been started. Island Echo readers have reported seeing no flames, but instead smoke issuing out of broken windows and doors on the High Street side of the abandoned premises. The smell of smoke is filling the evening sky. Over the years, the Ocean Hotel has caught fire numerous times and is now a common hang-out spot for squatters and vandals. It is understood that High Street is blocked to all traffic whilst firefighters – extracting water from nearby hydrants – work to extinguish the blaze. As a result, Route 3 Southern Vectis buses are diverting locally. The cause of the blaze is unknown at this time.