Trafalgar Square fire: Firefighters to probe cause of The Admiralty pub blaze

Firefighters battle a blaze in the basement of The Admiralty pub in Trafalgar Square Credit: PA

Fire investigators are probing the cause of a blaze that ripped through a central London pub.

More than 100 firefighters tackled the “challenging” blaze at a pub in Trafalgar Square in central London overnight.

The fire broke out at The Admiralty pub shortly before 5.50pm on Tuesday (12 July) and huge plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the building.

Some 10 fire engines and 70 firefighters were originally called to the scene, but this was later increased to 20 fire engines and around 125 firefighters amid “arduous” conditions.

The London Fire Brigade said half of the pub’s basement was alight.

Firefighters battle a blaze in the basement of The Admiralty pub in Trafalgar Square Credit: London Fire Brigade/PA

Station Commander Keith McDermott, who was called to the scene, said: “Due to the arduous, challenging and hot conditions inside the basement we’ve increased the number of fire engines and firefighters at the scene.

“Around 150 people evacuated the pub and surrounding businesses before the brigade arrived.”

There have been no reports of any injuries and the cause of the fire is not yet known.

The fire brigade gave an update on Twitter around three hours after firefighters began battling the flames.

Cat rescued from house fire is saved by specialist pet oxygen mask
Battersea trackside fire investigated after flames halt services

A spokesperson said: “Steady progress is being made at the Trafalgar Square pub fire. We’re likely to be at the scene for hours to come.

"It’s a hot night so crews are taking on a lot of water. Please spare a thought for all firefighters dealing with fires in these conditions.”

Late on Tuesday, the fire brigade confirmed the pub fire was under control.

LFB tweeted: "Firefighters worked incredibly hard in challenging conditions. We’ll be at the scene throughout the night and work will start on determining the cause of fire."

The pub confirmed it is closed until further notice.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said on Tuesday evening: "Distressing to hear of the events unfolding at a pub near Trafalgar Square."I am in touch with the London Fire Commissioner. Please avoid the area and allow the London Fire Bridgade to do their job."

The blaze comes amid a heatwave, with soaring temperatures reaching 30C in the capital on Tuesday.