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Search forChurch is destroyed by massive fire
Thursday, November 06, 2008, 12:35
About 40 firefighters using specialist aerial equipment tackled the blaze at the Christian International Ministries Church, in Horninglow Road, Burton.
Commuters faced rush-hour chaos after flames caused the roof to collapse and parts of the building to smash into the street, which was cordoned off by police. It is expected to be closed for the rest of the day.
Fire crews were alerted to the incident at the former bingo hall and cinema by a passing lorry driver at 3.40am.
Watch manager Nigel Taylor-Brown, based at Burton, was the first on the scene.
He said: "We forced open the door and window but did not commit anyone inside.
"The fire started spreading through the auditorium and into the roof space quickly. Then we started getting collapses."
No-one was injured but area commander Chris Bromley said the building would probably have to be pulled down.
He said: "It's very dangerous. I'd say it's a demolition job."
An investigation will be carried out but initial evidence suggests a wall heater left switched on may be to blame.
The church underwent a £200,000 refurbishment when it was taken over almost four years ago.
Senior church leader Jenny Watson said the building, which is thought to date back until at least the 1930s, was also used as a conference centre and ministry training centre.
Mrs Watson said: "It's a very devastating event to happen.
"It will probably have to come down – it will be too dangerous for drivers and pedestrians if left as it is."
Alan Bye, who has run the neighbouring Bye's Cafe for 44 years, was alerted to the blaze after his daughter went to open up at 6.30am.
He has been told by firefighters that it could be days or weeks before he is allowed back into the building – and only then if it is safe for the business to continue.
Mr Bye, of Castle Gresley, said: "It's upsetting."
Michael Rodgers, who represents the Burton ward on East Staffordshire Borough Council, runs the neighbouring Burton Antiques shop.
He had to collect his pet dog, Gizmo, from the police station after it escaped from the shop when firemen forced their way into the building to check if anyone was inside.
Mr Rodgers said: "It's devastating for the church."
Motorists were diverted through the town centre. Among them was Adam Bates, 25, of Rolleston. He said: "The traffic was bad but they had no choice but to close the road."
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