Roads were closed and homes and businesses were evacuated after a fire at a Weymouth town centre fish and chip shop last night.
The fire broke out at Fish 'n' Fritz on the corner of Market Street and Maiden Street.
The fire originated from a dishwasher at about 7pm.
Two fire crews from Weymouth and one from Portland acted quickly to extinguish the fire and prevent the spread to the flats above.
A re-inspection took place at 7.30am today to check for hot spots and carbon monoxide levels and the incident will remain open for another check later today.
Firefighters raced to the scene and police were also in attendance as a cordon was set up and properties had to be evacuated to ensure people's safety. The cordon remained in place for a few hours.
A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We received a call at 7.26pm with reports of a property fire on Market Street, Weymouth.
“Two fire engines from Weymouth and one from Portland were mobilised to the incident and on arrival found a fire on the ground floor of a commercial premises.
“Four breathing apparatus wearers used one hose reel jet and one main line to quickly extinguish the fire involving a dishwasher and prevent fire spread to the flats above.
“The crews remained on scene until 11.45pm. A re-inspection took place at 7.30am today to check for hot spots and carbon monoxide levels. The incident will remain open for another check later today.”
Police were also called to assist the fire service.
The nearby Market House pub was among the properties to be evacuated.
Maiden Street and Market Street were closed as firefighters worked at the scene.
No-one was hurt but damage was caused to the premises which will now be assessed. Fish 'n' Fritz, which includes a sit-in restaurant, will remain closed for a while.
A spokesperson for the business said: "We are relieved to report that all our staff, customers and neighbours were swiftly and safely evacuated from the premises and surrounding buildings.
"Thanks to the rapid response of two firefighting appliances from the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, the situation was brought under control effectively and efficiently.
"As soon as we are in a position to talk about the re-opening of Fish 'n' Fritz we will. We are aiming for that to be as soon as possible."
More to follow
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