Friar Street Reading reopens after 50 crew members tackled fire

Flames broke out on Friar Street at one of the buildings between the junctions of Greyfriars Road and Queen Victoria Street causing nearby businesses and properties to be evacuated.

Fire crews from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS), ambulance crews and Thames Valley Police were quick to the street to help get the flames under control.

READ MORE: Firefighters tackle Reading fire in Friar Street

Water jets could be seen being used by crews in attempts to control the blaze. Over 50 firefighters were at the scene.

The street, including Union Street, was closed off from Friday afternoon until about 2.30pm yesterday (May 27) meaning many businesses such as Eclectic Games, Mystic Lounge Tattoo, and others had to remain closed.

Buses had to be diverted from the area and pedestrians were redirecting by police.

In a statement on the RBFRS website, it said: “Over 50 firefighters at the peak of the fire, worked alongside partners, including Thames Valley Police, South Central Ambulance Service, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service and Reading Borough Council overnight at the scene.

“Crews in breathing apparatus used jets, hose reels and the Aerial Ladder Platform to extinguish the fire.

“Friar Street has now reopened to pedestrians and vehicles. Thank you to everyone for their patience and cooperation while emergency services dealt with this incident.”

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It is still unknown what the cause of the fire is and the extent of the damage done.

The Reading Chronicle has asked Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service for a further statement.