Firefighters tackled a major blaze at a men’s hairdressers on Middlegate last night.
Sirens were heard around 9pm with huge flames at the scene and thick black smoke billowing from Kos Cut barbers, next door to the Town Hall Treasures premises.
The fire involved several flats too, said officials in a statement via social media. The area was taped off to prevent onlookers getting nearer as people gathered at police lines.
A witness told of hearing a loud noise as windows shattered from the heat of the flames. “I have never been so shocked in all my life,” she said.
Another told the Herald they were staying at The George Hotel and heard a loud bang too and went outside to investigate.
Road closures were put in place while emergency services were at the scene.
At 10pm, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service reported on Twitter that the fire was out.
“The Middlegate area is currently closed while crews are damping down. The fire involved a barbers and several flats. Five fire engines and an aerial ladder were called to the scene,” said a spokesman.
