Dorchester café destroyed by fire at risk of further collapse
A cordon remains on that part of South Street
An investigation's getting underway into the cause of a devastating fire in Dorchester town centre.
The Grade Two listed Gorge Café on South Street has been destroyed in the blaze, which started in the early hours of yesterday morning (Monday 9th December).
A cordon's still in place at the front of the building due to the risk of collapse.
Trinity Street has now reopened as fire crews scale back their presence.
Businesses on South Street that haven't been affected by the incident have also been able to open, with some using alternative entrances.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue say they'll be carrying out extra inspections on site to ensure that the fire is fully out.
In a statement, the service has praised the local community:
"Our thanks go to the many individuals and businesses in the local community who offered refreshments, welfare and messages of support since the fire started yesterday. It is very much appreciated."
Thoughts now turn to the future of the building - Mark Chutter from the Thomas Hardy Society hopes it'll be restored to its former glory:
"It will have to rebuilt in the style that it was in. I think we've got to look on the positive side with this, although it's hard. I do think we can do something remarkable with this building, for the community.
"The Gorge has been there for years, since the 1970s I think. It was a really important part of the town and I think we've got to keep the Hardy connection there. I'll be talking to Dorchester Town Council about ways to restore the building."