Firefighters tackled a major blaze at a men’s hairdressers in Penrith.
Sirens were heard around 9pm with huge flames at the scene and thick black smoke billowing from Kos Cut barbers, next door to the Town Hall Treasures premises on Middlegate in the centre of town.
The fire involved several flats too, said officials in a statement via social media. The area was taped off to prevent onlookers getting nearer as people gathered at police lines.
A witness told of hearing a loud noise as windows shattered from the heat of the flames. “I have never been so shocked in all my life,” she said.
Another said they were staying at The George Hotel and heard a loud bang too and went outside to investigate.
Police advised people and drivers to avoid the area as emergency services continued to battle the blaze.
At 10pm, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service reported on Twitter that the fire was out.
Five fire engines and an aerial ladder were called to the scene.
