80 firefighters tackle blaze at block of flats in Basingstoke

Emergency services at the scene of the fire

Fire crews are assessing the scene of an extensive fire which broke out at a block of flats in Basingstoke on Saturday.

More that 80 firefighters from across Hampshire attended the large blaze at an apartment complex on Oakridge Road.

Richard Boxall filmed this footage of the fire.

The alarm was raised at 3.20pm, with flames and smoke visible over a large area.

The fire, in a housing complex, consisting of 9 blocks, was concentrated on the 2nd floor and roof of the building.

Firefighters worked for more than eight hours to stop it spreading to surrounding flats.

The stop message was received at 12.51 am, but crews remained on scene throughout the night to prevent flare-ups.

All residents have been accounted for.

Area Manager Jason Avery said ‘Crews have worked brilliantly this afternoon to manage the spread of the fire, and I’d like to give my thanks to our fantastic partners including SCAS, Police, Local Partners and Berkshire FRS who have worked equally hard to support us.’

A Facebook group has been set up to support the families affected. Concerned locals have been offering items such as clothes, food, pet supplies and toys.

The fire service has been praised for its quick response, with the community rallying to help those affected.

Basingstoke and Deane council leader, Cllr Paul Harvey posted on Facebook: "This afternoon a major fire has affected properties in the Oakridge Village. We've been down on site all afternoon supporting people.

"I want to thank the emergency services who have been amazing in such terrible circumstances. The fire brigade wants to thank the community for rallying around to help them tackle the fire.

"We are working right now to ensure everyone affected is housed, supported and looked after. Vivid, the Borough and County Council are here working to make sure people are looked after.

The Oak Pub in Oakridge is offering free breakfast and Sunday lunch to anyone displaced by the fire.

Posting on their Facebook page they said: "As a community of Oakridge we all need to pull together at this very sad time.

"Due to the tragic event that took place yesterday in Oakridge road, we would like to invite those displaced into the oak for free tea & coffee and a breakfast roll/sandwich this morning.

"This also applies to the roast dinners today (from 12-3pm) also free for any family/person displaced.

"Sending love to all those effected."