Terrace partially collapses after flat fire

A fire in a flat above a row of terraced shops that spread across the roofs of four other properties has caused the building to partially collapse.

Firefighters worked to tackle the flames after the blaze broke out in Lavant Street, Petersfield, on Thursday at about 18:20 BST, with people forced to leave their homes overnight.

The fire is now out with a urban search and rescue team from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service working to make the site safe for fire and police investigators to enter and establish the cause of the blaze.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said no injuries were reported.

Alma Blackwell, who runs a cafe in One Tree Books on the terrace, said: "I was happily baking – there are hundreds of cakes in there at the moment - then I came outside and there was smoke billowing out of the roof.

"Then before too long there were flames and all of the roofs were engulfed and we were watching it burning away which was pretty devastating. There was nothing we could do, just wait for the fire crews.

"I am very grateful for all they are doing but it was a pretty hard watch seeing it unfold in front of you."

Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed overnight due to the smoke.

The road remains closed with people urged to avoid the area to allow fire crews access.

At its height, eight fire engines were at the scene along with several other specialist vehicles.

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