UPDATED WITH VIDEO: Firefighters from Sandown, Ventnor and Newport are attending a large fire in Shanklin tonight (Saturday).
Flames can be seen shooting into the sky at the scene on Palmerston Road near Landguard Road.
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called to the incident at just before 22:40.
It is thought the fire has broke out in an old and possibly disused building.
UPDATE @ 23:24 – An aerial ladder appliance is now in attendance at the fire ground as crews battle against the blaze which is spread over two floors and an area of around 30x20m.
Two more pumps from Ryde have been requested to attend, making 5 in total plus the aerial appliance. The Incident Command Unit is also on scene.
All occupants of the neighbouring properties have been evacuated, including several young families.
UPDATE @ 00:00 – Firefighters continue to dowse the flames tonight as smoke billows around nearby buildings. Crews wearing breathing apparatus have surrounded the building and are working to stop the fire spreading to nearby homes and businesses.
The cause of the blaze is currently unknown.
A further pump from Freshwater and a water carrier from Freshwater are now also on scene.
Roads are closed in the area including the High Street. Southern Vectis buses are diverting locally.
UPDATE @ 00:40 – 6 breathing apparatus, 3 main jets and 4 hose reels are being utilised to damp down. The fire has been extinguished.
Crews from Ryde (two appliances) and both the pump and water carrier from Freshwater have now left the scene, however, firefighters from Sandown, Ventnor and Newport remain.
Building control surveyors are working with fire officers to assess the state of the buildings involved.
Meanwhile, paramedics and an ambulance officer are standing by as a precautionary measure and the fire service Chaplin is in attendance.
UPDATE @ 01:10 – Police are working with the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fire. Locals fear it is arson.
An examination of what is left of the scene is expected to get underway at first light when the full extent of the damage is revealed.
Fire crews are to remain at Palmerston Road overnight and they continue to damp down the remains of the building, which has been largely destroyed.
Road closures also remain in place.
Southern Vectis Routes 2 and 3 are continuing to divert via St John’s Rd and Brook Rd towards Shanklin from Newport – routes towards Newport are unaffected.
UPDATE @ 10:55 – Investigations have concluded that the fire was ‘most likely’ started deliberately.
Read the full story and see photographs of the charred remains of the building at https://www.islandecho.co.uk/news/daylight-reveals-extent-shanklin-blaze
VIDEO:
PHOTOS:
