Large 999 presence as fire crews tackle blaze above derelict parade of shops

[dutchman]

Smoke was seen pouring from two-storey properties in Keresley End



Several fire crews were called to tackle a blaze at a parade of derelict shops on the outskirts of Coventry. Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service said it dispatched 'a number of appliances' from across the county and Coventry after smoke was seen issuing from the roof of empty two-storey properties in Rathbone Close, Keresley End, at around 11am today (May 20).

Firefighters used hose reel jets to extinguish the fire, which appeared to have started in a first-floor room above what was Shimmers tanning hear and beauty salon. It's not yet known what caused the blaze or if anyone was injured.

Firefighters left the scene at around 3pm. "The incident in Keresley End is now closed," a fire service spokesperson said. "The roof of a derelict building was involved in fire.

"Five crews from Bedworth, Nuneaton, Coleshill, Binley and the Turntable Ladder from Leamington attended. Crews used jets, hose reels and breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire."

Fire crews managed to prevent the flames from spreading to adjoining properties, but the blaze still left heavy smoke logging and significant damage to the tiled roof space. The public were warned to avoid the area while fire crews dealt with the incident though neighbouring roads were not thought to have been closed during the operation.

"We have a number of appliances in attendance at an incident in Rathbone Close, Keresley End," a fire service spokesperson had said. "Please avoid the area." Warwickshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were approached for comment.

[dutchman]

Another cannabis farm?