Posted: 14:32, July 14, 2022
Updated: 7:57 PM July 14, 2022
Two floors have been left “completely shattered” and businesses damaged after a “devastating” fire ravaged a parade of shops in south Norfolk.
Firefighters were summoned to a parade of shops on the A140 in Long Stratton, in front of the Shell garage, shortly before 1:50 p.m. Thursday (July 14).
Two floors were left without a roof, while the others suffered serious damage – Credit: Brittany Woodman / Archant
As a result of the fire, two floors were left homeless, while the others suffered severe damage.
Gordon Oliver, director of the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service station, confirmed that no one was injured in the fire.
Fires in Long Stratton. Images: Brittany Woodman – Credit: Brittany Woodman / Archant
The dramatic fire took more than a dozen people to the streets watching as firefighters battled the flames.
The road is closed in both directions – Credit: Contribution
Annie, a mother who lives nearby, said, “She was doing school when we saw her. Everyone was outside watching her.
“There were a couple of ambulances but I couldn’t see them treating anyone. I hope no one was injured.”
Fire crews are putting out the fire revealing destroyed buildings]- Credit: Archant
An employee of a nearby company, who did not want to be named, said: “Fire vehicles arrived very quickly.
“Three of the parade’s shops have been lit and spread across the roofs of the buildings.”
A man working in the area has added that the flats appeared “completely shattered”.
He said, “It’s horrible. I didn’t hear anything, but a co-worker came in and told us. The smoke was so black and thick, but it’s gotten grayer.”
The fire has spread to three Long Stratton businesses – Credit: Contributed
A Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service spokesman confirmed at 4 p.m. that fire crews were still facing the fire.
Seven teams were sent to the scene from Earlham, Harleston, Sprowston, Wymondham and Hethersett.
Fires in Long Stratton. Louie. Images: Brittany Woodman – Credit: Brittany Woodman / Archant
Alison Thomas, of the South Norfolk District and Norfolk County Councilor of Long Stratton, said that after being alerted to the incident through social media, she went to the scene to offer her support.
Alison Thomas, Norfolk County Conservative Councilor – Credit: Norfolk Conservatives
She said, “My immediate thought was if you have everyone and everyone is safe?
“The next problem is how to deal with the consequences of something like that.
Firefighters Facing Long Stratton Fire – Credit: Brittany Woodman / Archant
“A few flats have been completely destroyed, so people have lost everything; it’s devastating.”
After the fire started, Norfolk police closed the road and asked motorcyclists to avoid the area.