Warning as crews bring old hospital fire under control

Maisie LillywhiteWest of England
News imageBBC Several fire engines, including one with a turntable ladder, parked in a residential area. Several crew members can be seen standing on a grass verge beside the road and there is smoke in the air, coming out of a derelict building.BBC
Avon Fire and Rescue Service says no injuries have been reported

Fire crews continue to dampen down a blaze at a derelict hospital that led to the evacuation of a health centre next door.

People were led from Keynsham Health Centre following the fire at the derelict Old Keynsham Hospital, on St Clements Road, Keynsham, Somerset, on Thursday afternoon.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service said eight fire engines and a turntable ladder were sent to the site. There were no reported injuries.

It said most of the fire had been put out by 18:00 BST but asked people to avoid the area, with St Clement's Road closed as crews remained on the scene "checking for any hotspots and chances of reignition". Water pressure had also returned to normal by the evening, it said.

"Please be aware, there is a lot of smoke still in the area," the fire service said at 15:00.

During the afternoon, it had advised people during to "please keep your doors and windows closed and try to remain inside to reduce any smoke inhalation".

News imageA fire engine is parked at the side of a residential street. A firefighter can be seen dealing with a hose at the side of the vehicle while two others step the other side of police tape onto a grass verge, heading towards the scene of the fire - a derelict hospital. There are hoses all over the floor and the sky is filled with smoke.
Roads were closed and people living nearby were asked to stay indoors

The fire service thanked residents for their patience.

In a statement posted on social media, Keynsham Health Centre said it was likely to remain shut for the rest of the day, with urgent appointments prioritised.

"Please bear with us and be patient with our reception teams whilst we reorganise the diary," the post said.

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