Major fire breaks out in Winchester city centre

The blaze started in the early hours of July 6 at The Square in Winchester, with flames quickly spreading through Cafe Monde and into the roofs of surrounding historic buildings, prompting a major emergency response and widespread disruption.

Danny Chambers, MP for Winchester, said: "It’s an absolute relief that nobody's been hurt.

"That's the number one concern.

Fire at Cafe Monde, The Square, Winchester (Image: KB)

"But it's heartbreaking to see these beautiful old historic buildings in the square and the centre of Winchester being damaged.

"This combination of extremely hot weather and very old buildings has become lethal.

"I want to thank the fire service for working so quickly and making sure nobody got hurt."

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that ten fire engines and specialist resources were deployed.

John Amos, area manager for the service, said: "The fire has spread into the roof.

"A lot of historic buildings are buildings that have been built upon other buildings, and they all share common roof space; this is making it difficult to contain.

"The main priorities now are firefighter safety, extinguishing the fire, and then salvaging any property."

As a result, businesses in the area have been told to remain closed until at least midday, with a cordon in place around The Square.

Fire at Cafe Monde, The Square, Winchester (Image: KB)

A decision on reopening is expected later today following further assessments by fire and police officials.

The incident has left residents and business owners shaken.

David, owner of The Square cafe, said: "The buildings are so old and not viable.

"I’m frustrated because I’m not allowed to see if any damage has been done and it would be nice to know.

"It’s the not knowing that’s the worry, but it’s out of my control.

"It’s sad times – it feels like a bit of a movie."

Fire at Cafe Monde, The Square, Winchester (Image: John Banks)

Others echoed his shock but expressed relief that no one was injured.

Jonathon Hill, from Petersfield, who was eating breakfast nearby, said: "It’s terrible, as they are old buildings, but as long as no one is hurt, that’s the main thing."

The fire service has asked the public to avoid the area and keep nearby roads clear to allow emergency vehicles easy access to the scene.