Emergency crews race to tackle second fiery blaze at derelict Sherwood Hotel – roads shut down as police hunt witnesses.
Flames Rip Through Derelict Hotel Again
Firefighters scrambled to the long-abandoned Sherwood Hotel on Belgrave Road, Torquay, on Sunday afternoon after another fire broke out on the first floor. This was the second blaze to hit the same derelict building in just 48 hours. The fire was reported around 1:50 pm, with crews from Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot, Dawlish, Brixham, and other neighbouring stations deployed to contain the flames. The incident forced road closures in both directions on Belgrave Road, causing traffic chaos as emergency services battled the fire well into the afternoon.
Massive Fire Response and Road Chaos
Additional support came from welfare and environmental units from Ivybridge and Taunton to manage the scene. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service kept the public updated as crews worked hard to bring the situation under control. Police officers were on-site to enforce road closures and are now appealing for anyone who witnessed the fire to come forward and help with their investigation.
Second Blaze Hits Eyesore Hotel Over Easter Weekend
Just two days earlier, on Friday night, the same rundown hotel had already gone up in flames, with firefighters battling a similar fire overnight. The repeated arson attacks have locals worried about safety and the future of the abandoned property.
Devon and Cornwall Police urge: “If you saw anything suspicious around the Sherwood Hotel over the weekend, please contact us immediately.”
Stay tuned for updates on road closures and fire service actions as this dramatic story develops.