Investigation to begin into ‘intense’ Bognor blaze

The fire began at the Keith Jay Carpets and Furniture Shop, in London Road, Bognor at around 6pm, prompting a major response from the fire and rescue service.

Flames could be seen leaping from the roof of the shop, with a column of thick black smoke billowing high into the sky.

A spokeswoman from West Sussex Fire and Rescue said four crews initially attended, but more were immediately called for when officers realised the severity of the fire.

‘There was an intense fire involving the first and second floor and the roof space of the building,’ she said.

A total of 12 crews, including teams from Havant, Bognor and Chichester, fought the flames while onlookers watched.

As The News went to press, firefighters had managed to bring the blaze under control, the spokeswoman said.

However, officers were likely to remain through today, with an investigation into the cause of the fire due to begin this morning.

Crews were supported by the Red Cross.