A dozen firefighters are battling a blaze at a block of flats in Swindon this morning.
Police officers have closed the Park North road in both directions as at least three fire engines are in attendance of the fire, which broke out at around 10am.
South Western Ambulance Service also has resources at the scene in Welcome Avenue, but it is still unclear whether anyone’s been injured in, or as a result of, the fire.
A crime scene cordon is in place as emergency services work at the incident.
Three fire engines and the aerial platform appliance from Swindon can be observed at the scene, just a stone’s throw from the Premier store.
Smoke could be seen billowing out of the flat block from a nearby high-rise building.
UPDATE 11AM: Two further fire crews have arrived at the incident, taking the total in attendance to six appliances, and approximately 25 firefighters.
Several police vehicles are also at the scene, but it’s not yet clear if there are any suspicious circumstances around how the significant blaze began. We’ve approached Wiltshire Police for comment.
UPDATE 1PM: A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently dealing with a fire in Welcombe Avenue, Swindon.
“We were called at 10.13am this morning and have six fire crews in attendance, from Swindon (x2), Stratton (x2), Westlea and Royal Wootton Bassett, together with the aerial ladder platform from Swindon.
“The fire started in a first floor flat; all flats within the building have been evacuated as a precaution and four people and a dog were rescued by firefighters using a ladder.
“The incident is on-going, so we are unable to say anything further at this time; the cause of the fire will be investigated once it is fully extinguished.
“We are being supported at the scene by colleagues from Wiltshire Police and Swindon Borough Council.”
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