Massive Blaze Tears Through Derelict Isle of Wight Hotel
More than 45 firefighters battled a fierce fire at the abandoned Ocean Hotel in Sandown, Isle of Wight, late on 8 May. Fire crews rushed to High Street at 8:25pm after reports of thick black smoke billowing from the roof of the four-storey building.
Intense Effort to Tackle Flames
All floors of the old hotel were engulfed as firefighters unleashed 15 breathing apparatus, five main jets, and two aerial ladder platforms to bring the blaze under control. The fire service called in reinforcements from Fareham, Hightown, Southsea, and Droxford, who arrived by ferry to bolster efforts.
After a gruelling night, the all-clear came at 4:30am, with crews set to return today for thorough reinspections.
Fire Chief Thanks Multi-Agency Team
“Teams worked hard in difficult conditions, especially battling strong winds early on,” said Group Manager Justin Harden. “Our crews adapted tactics to stay safe and get the fire under control.”
“Thanks to all Island crews and Hampshire teams for their tireless work through the night. This was a true multi-agency effort, with invaluable support from police, ambulance services, Coastguard, Southern Electricity, Southern Water, the Environment Agency, and local council emergency planners.”
“Parts of the hotel remain structurally unsafe. For everyone’s safety and to allow reinspections, I urge the public to avoid the site.”
Cause of Fire Under Investigation
The reason behind the devastating blaze remains unknown. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause as emergency teams continue their work on the scene.
