Investigation underway into fire in South Kensington

An investigation's underway into what caused a major fire in South Kensington.

160 people were evacuated from the five storey building on Emperor's Gate and surrounding buildings overnight.

They've now been allowed back in their homes.

Five were rescued and 11 people had to be taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.

Two people were rescued by firefighters from a second floor flat using a 13.5 metre ladder, whilst two people were rescued from a fourth floor flat by crews using a turntable ladder. One person was rescued from a first floor flat by crews using a short extension ladder. Around 11 people were treated for smoke inhalation and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

Station Commander Steve Collins, who was at the scene, he said: "The fire spread from the ground floor to the top floor and roof of the property. Crews worked extremely hard to contain it and prevent the blaze spreading to adjacent buildings. We remain at the scene dampening down hotspots.

Ben King, Borough Commander for Kensington & Chelsea, said: "People displaced from properties were taken to a local rest centre where they have been given support by our Community Engagement team, the local authority and other partners. Around 100 people have since been able to return to neighbouring properties.

"Road closures remain in place and emergency services are likely to remain at the scene throughout the day so we would ask people to continue to avoid the area."

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