Fire Shuts Down Bartholomew Street in Newbury After Blaze Hits Abandoned Sports Bar
Bartholomew Street in Newbury was sealed off tonight after a fire tore through a disused sports bar just after 5pm. The blaze broke out in an empty building once home to Bar Sport, forcing police to close the road in both directions.
Massive Fire Response from Three Counties
Firefighters from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue were joined by crews from Hampshire and Oxfordshire tackling the flames. Several teams, including those wearing breathing apparatus and wielding hose reels, battled the blaze as thick smoke billowed across the street.
Empty Building Thought to House Homeless – No Injuries Reported
Initial reports suggest the abandoned building was being used by homeless people, but thankfully, no one was inside when the fire broke out. Emergency services have confirmed there are no injuries so far.
Traffic Chaos as Drivers Struggle to Escape Town Centre
The road closure has caused heavy congestion as drivers try to avoid the scene. Additional fire crews, including those from Kingsclere, have been called in to help bring the situation under control.
Investigation Underway into Cause of Blaze
A spokesman for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue said: “We received the call around 5pm and dispatched several appliances from local and surrounding stations. The blaze has now been brought under control, and an investigation into its cause will begin shortly.”
Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.
