PEOPLE faced a night in emergency accommodation after a block of flats caught fire in Frome – with part of the roof collapsing.

Fire crews from the Devon & Somerset and Dorset & Wiltshire services were sent to the scene, in Marigold Road, at just after 7.50pm last night (December 3).

“Fire Control Operators ensured the building was being evacuated and an ambulance was requested due to concerns of potential smoke inhalation during those calls,” a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

“A decision was made by Fire Control to also mobilise our aerial ladder platform from Yeovil should any occupants have been unable to evacuate.”

Three fire engines – from Frome, Westbury and Trowbridge – were sent to the scene initially, with “smoke and flames seen issuing from a top floor flat” and “was quickly spreading”.

“On arrival of our Frome crew, this was confirmed and minutes later an assistance message was received to increase the attendance by a further two fire engines, mobilised from Warminster, to assist with firefighting, scene safety and any potential casualties,” the spokesperson went on.

“A command support vehicle from Street was also mobilised, together with two fire engines from Shepton Mallet and Wells later on in the incident for additional equipment and relief crews.”

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Soon after, crews confirmed all occupants had left the building, with one treated for smoke inhalation.

By around 2.30am, firefighters said the blaze was “under control”, with the cause being investigated and residents being sorted with emergency accommodation by Somerset Council due to the structural issues after the roof collapse.

The fire services said seven firefighters tackled the flames in breathing apparatus, using two hose reel jets and two main attack jets, internally and externally, together with thermal imaging cameras to check for hotspots and gas detection monitors.

“The scene has now been handed over to police but further fire investigation will recommence in daylight hours by both our fire investigation officer and Police crime scene investigators,” the spokesperson added.

“Local authority housing association representatives attended to assist with rehoming occupants due to extensive fire, smoke and water damage, as well as the structural integrity.

“Utility companies also attended to isolate both gas and electrics.”

Frome Town Council (FTC) said it was “exploring ways” to help residents affected by the fire.

Mayor, Anita Collier, said: “All of us at FTC are shocked and saddened to hear about last night’s fire at Edmund Park. Our thoughts are with all the residents of the flats and everyone affected.

“Thank you to the brilliant emergency services for getting everyone out safely.

“We’re talking to our partner organisations about practical help we can offer as a community and we will share information soon.”