SMOKE ISSUING FROM BASEMENT ON RYDE’S MONKTON STREET

Firefighters from Ryde and Newport are tackling a fire within the basement area of a property in Ryde this afternoon (Friday). 2 appliances are on scene at Monkton Street, where smoke has been seen issuing from the basement level of a semi-detached building. Breathing apparatus has been donned as investigations get underway, with a grate removed externally in an attempt to locate the source of the fire. A thermal imaging camera and a hose reel jet are also being utilised. Monkton Street is currently closed between Park Road and Rink Road with cordons in place. UPDATE @ 16:55 – The fire – situated within an external void below ground level and consisting of wood and general rubbish – has been extinguished. The cause is unclear. Crews remain on scene but the incident is expected to be brought to a conclusion shortly.