The Angel Hotel in Midhurst fire statement and update

At 1.08am on Thursday 16th March West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service were called to reports of a hotel fire at North Street, Midhurst.

Joint Fire Control mobilised 15 fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms, two water carriers, an off-road vehicle and high volume pump to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters were met with a significant fire in the roof space of the hotel, which spread to adjacent properties. They worked hard to bring it under control and were at the scene for a considerable amount of time.

Over 30 people were safely evacuated from the buildings and a relief centre has been set up in Midhurst for those that have been displaced.

Local residents are advised to keep their doors and windows shut as there is a large smoke plume in the area.

North Street is expected to be closed for some time, so take this into account when travelling.

Assistance was provided by Surrey Fire & Rescue Service, Hampshire & Isle of White Fire & Rescue Service, Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service.

The A286 North Street is still closed to vehicles and is closed to both pedestrians and vehicles directly outside The Angel Hotel for safety reasons.

This means there remains no access to the following premises within this cordon:

• Blown Away
• The Olive & Vine
• Midhurst Palliative Care
• St Wilfrid’s Hospice
• South Downs Dental Care
• Liphook Valet Services
• Henry Adams
• Age UK
• Midhurst Pharmacy

There will be now be pedestrian access on the northbound side of North Street from Pizza Hot Grill and Stockley Outdoor & Equestrian, and southbound from Tesco Express and Boots.