More than 70 firefighters battle new blaze

FIRE has left Sidmouth’s derelict Fortfield Hotel in ruins after the second massive blaze there in just over a month.

More than 70 firefighters last night battled a huge inferno that entirely engulfed the main hotel building.

Residents were urged to stay in their homes and roads were shut for hours after flames broke out at around 7pm last night (Friday, January 29).

Two appliances from Sidmouth were first on the scene

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “A call was received at 6.49pm reporting the Fortfield Hotel in Sidmouth on fire. An inital attendance of six fire engines, two from Sidmouth, Ottery, Middlemoor in Exeter, Budleigh and Seaton, the aerial ladder platform and bowser from Exeter Danes Castle, hose layer from Honiton and the incident support unit plus a support appliance from Exmouth.

“Once crews arrived they requested a further four fire engines, two from Honiton, two from Exmouth, soon followed by a further aerial ladder platform and compressed air foam appliance from Somerset.”

Watch Commander Andy Revesz told the Herald at the scene: “On arrival the building was well involved in fire on the top floor of the premises.

“The fire has spread and now involves all floors down to the ground in the main part of the building.”

Fire crews worked with police to shut roads, pump water from the mouth of the River Sid, and reassure local residents. Nobody nearby was evacuated.

“It was safer to keep residents in their homes,” added Commander Revesz.

More to follow….

• SEND your photos and video or share your experience of the blaze by e-mailing stefan.gordon@archant.co.uk or call (01395) 888501.