A HUGE fire has destroyed a four-storey hotel and spread to the roof of another in central Bournemouth.
More than 100 firefighters - including crews from Bridport - tackled the fierce blaze in Gervis Road and residents of nearby hotels were evacuated.
Flames spread to the roof of a neighbouring hotel.
Road closures were extended to Bath Hill, Grove Road, Gervis Road and Meyrick Road.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were joined by colleagues from Hampshire to fight the fire.
A spokesman said crews were alerted to the derelict hotel at 11.26pm.
Sixteen crews used main jets and hose reel jets to tackle the fire, and two aerial ladder platforms (ALPs) were in use. A high volume pump from Christchurch was also been sent to the scene to boost the water supply.
Large #fire in derelict building on Gervis Road in Bournemouth - @Bournemouthecho pic.twitter.com/EnsU15oygq
— Nicole Baddeley (@nicole_baddeley) September 23, 2020
"Two neighbouring hotels have been evacuated as a precaution, with all residents accommodated at other hotels for the night. There has been some fire spread to the roof of one building, but this is now under control.
"DWFRS crews are in attendance as are Springbourne, Westbourne, Redhill Park, Christchurch (two), Poole (three), Ferndown, Hamworthy, Wimborne (two) and Verwood, together with the ALP from Westbourne and a support unit from Hamworthy.
"Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has sent crews from New Milton (two) and Burley, together with a water carrier from Ringwood and the ALP from St Mary’s in Southampton, both with supporting pumps.
"Local people are being advised to be aware of the smoke still issuing from the scene and are asked not to call 999 unless they are certain the fire they are seeing is not this incident. Anyone in close proximity to the affected area should keep doors and windows closed as a precaution."
Crews will remain on the scene today.
More follows
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 here