Derelict hotel in Ilfracombe in "various stages of instability and collapse" after fire
At its height, eight appliances were called to the scene at Torrs Park
Last updated 23rd Apr 2022
Fire crews have been called to a blaze in a derelict building in Ilfracombe, after receiving over 30 calls from the public.
The four storey hotel at Torrs Park was well alight when teams arrived yesterday afternoon (Friday 22 April).
At its height eight appliances were tackling the fire. This was later scaled down to four.
Some parts of the building are said to be unstable and ready to collapse due to the condition of it - but crews are said to be making good progress.
An update on Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service's website said: "This afternoon Fire Control received over 30 calls to a four storey derelict hotel on fire at Torrs Park in Ilfracombe.
"Initially two fire appliances from Ilfracombe and Braunton were mobilised but due to the amount of calls received and information coming from them Fire Control increased the attendance by a further crew from Barnstaple and, within minutes of Ilfracombe crew arriving on scene, this attendance was increased by two further fire appliances, mobilised from Barnstaple and Lynton, together with a command support unit from Ilfracombe.
"Further assistance messages followed from scene for fire appliances, specialist support vehicles and officers to aid firefighting, prevent the fire spreading to nearby properties and provide incident support.
"At its peak the incident had eight fire appliances, a command support vehicle, an aerial ladder platform, two water carriers, a welfare vehicle and eight officers providing specialist skills and supporting roles.
"Update 22.45hrs - This incident is still ongoing and is likely to carry on through the night.
"Despite crews making good and steady progress, due the condition of the building and extent of the fire, this is now a case of scene and crew safety as the building is in various stages of instability and collapse.
"The attendance has been reduced to four fire appliances and an aerial ladder platform from Hartland, Torrington, Woolacombe, Witheridge and Danes Castle (Exeter).
"At this time the cause has not been confirmed and further updates will follow when available/relevant.
"Update 08.30hrs - We currently have one fire appliance in attendance providing a watching brief, monitoring for hotspots and damping down. Further updates will follow when avail."
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service