'Reindeer safe' after Chessington World of Adventures blaze

Chessington World of Adventures has announced it will re-open on Boxing Day following a blaze at the theme park.

Two reindeer had to be evacuated from a Santa's grotto at the Chessington World of Adventures, when a huge blaze took hold of the theme park.

Thousands of children were turned away when it was forced to close just days before Christmas as dozens of firefighters worked "exceptionally hard" to tackle the flames.

Craig Carter, a station manager for the London brigade, said: "None of the animals were evacuated, bar two reindeer, interestingly enough. So I can confirm that Santa's reindeer are safe and well and ready to be collected on Christmas Eve."

A statement from Chessington World of Adventures has said that the fire is now "under control."

A large part of the restaurant at the Chessington theme park is alight and fire crews are attempting to bring the blaze under control.

The fire at Chessington World of Adventure is in a cafe which was being used as Santa's grotto over the Christmas period.

During the festive season the park opens for restricted hours and with access just to part of the zoo, this includes the Creaky cafe where visitors could visit the 'Night before Christmas - A Magical Adventure' attraction.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said there were no reports of any injuries.

"There are some road closures in place to ensure people are kept a safe distance away," he added.

The London Ambulance Service said it received a call about the fire at 9am and sent emergency response crews to the scene.

The Chessington World of Adventures theme park in Surrey will be closed today after a fire broke out in the Creaky Cafe, which is close to several animal enclosures.

The fire at Chessington World of Adventures is in the Creaky Cafe which is next to several animal enclosures.