70 Firefighters Tackle Large Church Blaze in Preston; Roads Closed Amid Major Emergency Response
A major fire broke out at a historic church in Preston on Saturday evening, prompting a massive emergency response. Around 70 firefighters were deployed to tackle the large blaze, which engulfed the structure and sent plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
The fire erupted at the St. Mark’s Church building, located on Fishergate Hill, shortly before 6:00 PM. Emergency services quickly descended on the scene as flames tore through the roof of the Grade II-listed building. Fire crews from across Lancashire and neighboring areas responded, with 12 fire engines, aerial ladder platforms, and specialist support units attending the incident.
Residents reported hearing loud cracking sounds and witnessing fire leap from the steeple as the inferno intensified. The heat from the flames was reportedly felt from over 100 metres away, and glowing embers were seen drifting through the air.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that no injuries had been reported, but the scale of the operation meant significant disruption to local roads and businesses. Preston police cordoned off large sections of Fishergate Hill, Strand Road, and parts of Liverpool Road to allow emergency vehicles to access the site and ensure public safety.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said, “We received the first call at 5:58 PM reporting a large fire at a place of worship. On arrival, crews were met with a fully developed fire involving the church’s roof and upper floors. The operation is expected to continue into the early hours, and we urge the public to avoid the area.”
Locals were asked to keep doors and windows closed due to the heavy smoke, which could be seen from miles away. Emergency services also requested that people do not gather at the scene to allow crews to work safely and efficiently.
Witnesses expressed shock and sadness at the damage done to the historic building, which has stood in the community for more than a century. “It’s heartbreaking,” said one local resident. “This church has been part of our lives for generations. Seeing it burn like this is devastating.”
The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Fire investigators will begin examining the site once it is safe to enter. Until then, crews continue to work through the night, focusing on bringing the fire under control and preventing its spread to nearby buildings.
Mayor of Preston, Councillor Lorraine Wilson, issued a statement on social media, thanking firefighters for their rapid response and bravery. “This is a terrible loss for our community, but we are grateful to the fire service for doing everything they can to contain the situation,” she said.
Road closures remain in place as crews continue to dampen down hotspots. The public is advised to check local traffic updates and avoid the area where possible.
More information will be provided as the investigation unfolds and structural assessments of the church are completed. The full extent of the damage will likely take days to determine.
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