Pictures from the scene of a fire in Walton show a block of flats up in flames. Eight fire engines battled a blaze on Wednesday evening (May 29) at a high-rise building in Walton. The building at The Heart shopping centre was evacuated by Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.
Thankfully all people were accounted for and the fire was extinguished earlier this morning (30 May). The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. However, sadly the fire caused huge damage with families losing all their possessions.
A spokesperson for Walton Fire Station said: “Unfortunately numerous properties were severely damaged in the fire and a lot of people will be left with no/very little possessions. We are gladly offering our station as a drop off point for any donations that would benefit families during this difficult time. As we are in the early stages of this incident taking place, we do not have an exact list of what is required. But please feel free to donate items that will benefit the families in the short term.”
It is understood that at least 12 people are in temporary accommodation due to fire damage. Elmbridge Borough Council said no residents required its support with accommodation overnight but it would work with The Heart and Surrey County Council “to provide accommodation support to impacted residents if needed in the coming days”.
The Heart Shopping Centre said the fire was within the residential area of The Heart. They added: “We are relieved to confirm that, as far as we are aware, nobody was injured. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by this incident, and our top priority remains the safety and well-being of our community.” The shopping centre will open as usual on Thursday after being deemed safe by fire engineers.
See below for pictures of the fire.
The fire service said this morning: “We scaled back the incident at 00:30am, once confirmed the building and residents were safe. 1 fire engine stayed at the scene overnight. Thanks to everyone for allowing us to carry out our work safely and to all who worked on this incident.”
Emergency services at the scene
(Image: Peter Deakin)A fire broke out in Walton
(Image: Peter Deakin)