Investigation into Yarmouth Northgate street fire halted

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service says that the cause of the fire on Northgate Street is undetermined due to the damage suffered after linked buildings went up in flames on Saturday morning.

Firefighters were called to the blaze on Saturday morning. (Image: Emma Kelv-Seal) A spokesman for Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said parts of the main structure remain unsafe.

"We have carried out a preliminary investigation into the cause of fire," the spokesman said. 

"But as the building was extensively damaged and is unsafe in areas, it is unlikely we will be able to access the building enough to carry out a full investigation at this time."

The roof of the building has been devastated. (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography) Several people were evacuated while nearly 50 firefighters tackled the blazed and rescued one person and several dogs.

Brandon McHugh, who lived in one of the fire-ravaged flats, was able to evacuate the property with two of his dogs but his remaining eight dogs were trapped inside before firefighters made the rescue.

Mr McHugh said he was woken up "by the postman screaming and shouting up to me at my bedroom window that the house was on fire".

Brandon McHugh shortly after evacuating the building. (Image: Anthony Carroll) "Thank you very much to the firemen and the postman for alerting me," he said. "I'd just like to say a big massive thank you."

The owner of LK Aesthetics and Tanning said on its Facebook page: "We are absolutely devastated, to say the least. I’ve worked hard along with the girls to make a successful business. 

"Thankfully all people in the flats above are safe and well."

The building was once home to one of Great Yarmouth's oldest Post Offices. (Image: Newsquest Archives) Two GoFundMe campaigns have been launched to assist Mr McHugh and LK Aesthetics and Tanning.

Mr McHugh, who said he lost all of his material items in the blaze which nearly "burned him alive", is trying to raise funds for clothes and shoes.

Over the years, the main building has been home to prominent businesses on Northgate Street. One side was previously Wheatley Jewellers, while the other unit was recently a butchers, a fishmongers and was once home to one of the town's oldest post offices until its closure in 2008.

For more information on the campaigns, search 'Laura ... Lk Aesthetics' and 'Disaster to a massive fire' on www.gofundme.com