Yahoo News Fire at Catholic school favoured by politicians
More than 70 firefighters are tackling a blaze at the London Oratory School in Fulham, south west London.
The London Fire Brigade said it sent 10 fire engines to the school on Seagrave Road.
The outstanding-rated boys’ school is favoured by politicians. The sons of former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and former deputy prime minister Sir Nick Clegg were both educated at the Roman Catholic school, which has nearly 1,400 pupils between the ages of seven and 18.
Earlier this year, Melanie Sanderson, managing editor of The Good Schools Guide, said there was fierce competition for places at the school.
“Places are at a premium,” she told The Property Exchange podcast. “You either need to be a regular church goer or need to live very close. If you can get that golden ticket, undoubtedly you’re on to a winner.”
In a statement, the London Fire Brigade said the school’s atrium is alight in a four storey building with a basement.
“The cause of the fire is not known at this stage,” it said.
Police and Ambulance services are also at the school. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: “Police don’t know at this stage whether there are any injured persons inside the school.
“The cause of the fire is currently unknown and will be investigated.”
A nearby shopping centre and some residential addresses have been evacuated as a precaution, police said.
Surrounding roads have been closed and police have asked the public to avoid the area.
This is a breaking news story.
