Wokingham Fire Closes Broad Street

More than 40 firefighters are tackling a large fire in a Berkshire town centre, reports the BBC.

Broad Street in Wokingham has been closed while they deal with the blaze in a Grade-II listed building, according to Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service about half of the roof of the two-storey and basement building had been destroyed.

BBC reporter Duncan McLarty, who was at the scene, said the fires were “quietening down” by 10:00 BST.

“At it’s height it was a really significant blaze. The innards of the building are wooden and Tudor.”

“The front of the building is a beautiful stately regency building, about 200 years old, so it’s hoped the outside of the building may be able to be saved.”

Vice-chairman of Berkshire Fire Authority and Wokingham borough councillor Pauline Helliar-Symons was also at the scene.

She said it was “very sad”.

“They are very precious buildings along this street and we’re very proud of them.

“I’m really grateful they’ve managed not to let it spread to any of the buildings on either side, or across the road. They’ve done a brilliant job of doing that.”