Yahoo News Six casualties, huge cordon and homes and businesses evacuated in Burslem fire drama
Six people have received treatment after a huge blaze broke out at a business in Stoke-on-Trent. Nearby homes and commercial premises - including B&M - have also been evacuated after the fire ripped through the Burslem building this afternoon (January 21).
A huge cordon remains in place as firefighters continue to tackle the inferno on Waterloo Road. It has not yet been confirmed which business has gone up in flames but eye witness reports suggest it is a sari shop.
The alarm had been raised shortly before 1pm with scores of fire engines, police cars and ambulances sent in. As the incident developed the cordon and road closure was extended with Waterloo Road now shut between Zion Street and its junction with Moorland Road.
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "We were called at 12.42pm today to a business premises on Waterloo Road in Stoke-on-Trent following reports of a fire. Officers informed colleagues at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
"We closed off Waterloo Road at Mayer Bank while firefighters attended the scene along with paramedics. A number of nearby businesses and homes have been evacuated as a precaution.
"A total of six people have received oxygen treatment and are being assisted by paramedics at the scene. There will continue to be disruption in the area for a number of hours. A cordon remains in place and the public are being urged to avoid the area."
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed that paramedics are currently assessing 'a number of patients' at the scene on Waterloo Road. It comes after witnesses spotted a group being rescued from the top floor of a building by brave firefighters.
A spokeswoman said: "We’re currently in attendance at a large property fire on Waterloo Road after we were called by the fire service at 1.02pm. Three ambulances, two paramedic officers, HART paramedics and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene. A number of patients are currently being assessed and treated by ambulance staff. There are no reported serious injuries."
READ MORE: In pictures: 'Burslem filled with smoke' as emergency services battle fire
