A fire at Cordners shoe shop in Newtownards, County Down, has been successfully controlled by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), as reported on 8 March 2024 at 07:21 GMT. The blaze, which was first reported at 06:32 GMT, required the efforts of 48 firefighters to prevent its spread. Working tirelessly, the firefighters managed to extinguish the fire by 16:48 GMT, with no reported injuries.
NIFRS Group Commander Andy Burns commended the firefighters for their hard work and dedication during the incident, noting that the fire is believed to have been accidental. The fire caused extensive damage to the shoe shop and led to the closure of nearby roads for a significant portion of the day, although most restrictions have since been lifted.
Business owners in the area, such as Riccardo Cafolla of Cafolla’s café, now face uncertainties as they assess the damage to their properties. Cafolla expressed hope that his cafe can reopen within a couple of weeks, pending any structural issues. He also praised the strong sense of community spirit in Newtownards, where residents have come together to support those affected by the fire.
The NIFRS deployed seven pumping appliances, an aerial appliance, and a command support unit to tackle the fire and prevent its spread to neighboring properties. Despite the damage caused, the swift response of the firefighters helped contain the blaze and minimize its impact on the surrounding area.
As Newtownards grapples with the aftermath of the fire, the resilience and unity of its community stand as a testament to the strength and support found within the town.
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