Firefighters have successfully extinguished a blaze at a pub in Market Square in Petworth this afternoon.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service says crews were called to reports of a fire in the cellar of a pub in the town centre shortly after half past one. Four fire engines were sent to the scene as a precaution, with firefighters working to bring the incident under control and prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring buildings.
The fire has now been put out, and the service has confirmed that two fire crews remain at the scene while follow-up checks continue. Firefighters are damping down the affected area and assessing the extent of the damage, as well as ensuring there are no remaining hot spots.
Emergency services initially asked members of the public to avoid Market Square to allow crews to work safely and maintain access for emergency vehicles. Residents living nearby were also advised to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke in the area.
Market Square is the main route through Petworth and was busy at the time of the incident, with the fire prompting a visible emergency response in the heart of the town. Traffic disruption was reported while fire engines were in attendance, and people were urged to use alternative routes where possible.
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “We were called at 1.33pm today to reports of a fire in the cellar of a pub in Market Square in central Petworth, West Sussex. Joint Fire Control mobilised four fire engines to the scene. The fire is now out and two fire crews remain at the scene. We are asking that people avoid the area to allow firefighters to continue to work safely.”
The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and there are no reports of any injuries.
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