More Than 100 Firefighters Tackle Large Church Blaze in Tamworth – Road Closed

More Than 100 Firefighters Tackle Large Church Blaze in Tamworth – Road Closed

 

Tamworth, Staffordshire – More than 100 firefighters have been deployed to combat a major blaze that tore through a historic church in Tamworth in the early hours of Sunday morning. The inferno, which broke out at around 2:30am, quickly engulfed the structure, sending flames and smoke billowing into the sky and forcing authorities to close Tamworth Road in both directions.

 

Emergency services, including multiple fire crews, paramedics, and police, rushed to the scene as flames ripped through the roof of the building. Crews from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, supported by teams from neighbouring counties, worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control, using aerial ladder platforms and high-pressure hose reels to tackle the fire from above and on the ground.

 

Residents living near the church were woken by loud crackling and explosions, with some forced to evacuate their homes due to the intensity of the fire. Witnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic,” with thick plumes of smoke visible from miles away.

 

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that over 100 firefighters had been involved in battling the blaze, which was described as one of the largest in recent memory in the area. “This was a significant and challenging incident. Our crews responded rapidly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings,” the spokesperson said.

 

The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a full investigation will be launched once the site is deemed safe to enter. Fire investigators are expected to work closely with police to determine whether the blaze was accidental or deliberate.

 

Tamworth Road remains closed between Mill Lane and the A51 to allow emergency services to continue their work and ensure public safety. Drivers have been urged to avoid the area and find alternative routes, as significant disruption is expected throughout the day.

 

Local authorities have issued health warnings to residents living downwind of the smoke plume, advising them to keep windows and doors shut and to avoid outdoor activity while the smoke lingers.

 

The church, believed to be over 150 years old, is considered a local landmark and has played an important role in the community for generations. Locals expressed shock and sadness at the fire’s devastation. “It’s heartbreaking,” said one nearby resident. “That church has been part of Tamworth for so long – weddings, christenings, funerals – it means a lot to many people here.”

 

Tamworth Borough Council leader, Cllr Jeremy Oates, called the fire a “tragedy for the whole town” and promised support for any affected residents and parish members. “We’re grateful for the swift response of the fire service and emergency teams. The community will undoubtedly pull together in the days ahead,” he said.

 

As the fire crews continue dampening down hotspots, it may take several days before a full structural assessment can be completed. Authorities have confirmed that there have been no reported injuries so far.

 

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and the extent of the damage becomes clearer.

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