Fires tear through two Croydon pubs just minutes away from each other
Around 100 firefighters were involved in tackling the flames earlier today
Last updated 31st Aug 2023
Fires have torn through two derelict pubs just streets away from each other in south London.
Around 100 firefighters tackled the blazes, which happened at the same time in Croydon on Thursday.
Parts of both buildings were "destroyed" and the cause of the fires is under investigation.
Footage on social media showed flames and smoke billowing into the air.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said eight fire engines and about 60 firefighters were called to the the first blaze, at the former Windmill pub in St James's Road, at 5.44am.
It said: "The whole of the second floor and the roof of the building were destroyed by fire, resulting in a roof collapse. There were no reports of any injuries.
"One of the brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders was used as a water tower to tackle the fire from above."
At 6.24am, the LFB was called to the second fire, at the former Drum & Monkey pub in Gloucester Road, which is just a few minutes' walk from the first one.
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters attended the scene.
The fire service added: "The whole of the first and second floors of the building were destroyed by fire. There were no reports of any injuries."