ACRID smoke filled the air as firefighters tackles a fierce house fire in Widnes.
Thick black plumes could be seen for miles as a semi-detached brick-built property on St Anne’s Road went up in flames.
Residents watched in horror as a large number of fire engines turned up to fight the blaze shortly after 6pm yesterday, Tuesday.
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus initially went into the house to tackle the fire with hose reel jets, while main water jets were aimed outside and at the roof.
However, crews had to withdraw when the roof collapsed.
Undeterred, firefighters continued to work under emergency lighting until the burning subsided at around 8pm.
All the neighbouring streets were cordoned off as three fire engines and an aerial ladder platform battled to bring the fire under control.
People gathered outside their homes speculating about what could have caused such a ferocious blaze.
Firefighters remained at the scene overnight.
A meeting is being held with building control this morning, Wednesday, to assess the stability of the house.
An investigation will begin when the structure is deemed safe to enter.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel