A huge fire has broken out this evening at a bike shop in Forest Hill, South East London. The blaze is raging fiercely, engulfing the electric push bike service shop in flames.
Over 60 Firefighters Battle Fierce Flames
More than 60 firefighters from the London Fire Brigade have been rushed to the scene. Ten fire engines are fighting the well-developed fire, which is spreading rapidly inside the bike shop.
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Cause of Fire Still Unknown
The cause of the blaze remains unclear. Officials have confirmed that the shop specialises in servicing electric push bikes, but have yet to determine what sparked the fire.
Witnesses Describe “Violent” Scenes
Local witnesses described the fire as “massive” and “violent,” expressing concern for the safety of those nearby. One posted on social media: “Massive fire in Forest Hill, hope everyone is alright and safe, looks violent.”
A spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said: Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been called to a fire at a property on Perry Vale in Forest Hill.
The fire is situated in a ground floor shop.
People in the local area are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke travel.
A 25-metre cordon is currently in place and the public are advised to avoid the area at this time. Significant traffic disruption can be expected in the Fores Hill area.
The Brigade received the first of 49 calls at 1827 and Control Officers have mobilised crews from Forest Hill, Lewisham, Beckenham, West Norwood and surrounding fire stations to the scene. A 32-metre turntable ladder is also in attendance and is being used as a water tower to extinguish the fire from above.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.