Pictures show Cosham takeaway devastated by fire which spread to flat and destroyed roof

A takeaway in Cosham has been severely damaged after a fire broke out and spread to the flat above.

Firefighters from several stations rushed to the scene in Portsmouth Road at 3.20pm on Saturday (June 20). Smoke was pouring out of the Royal Kebab House building and spreading over the nearby railway station.

Shocked members of the public gathered near the scene to see what was happening. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) confirmed to The News this morning that the blaze originated from the business’ kitchen ventilation system.

It quickly spread to the flat above and a nearby property. Emergency personnel from Cosham, Fareham, Havant, Hightown, Horndean, Portchester and Southsea, were deployed.

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HIWFRS said they “worked swiftly to surround the fire and prevent it from escalating further”. They added: “Firefighters used breathing apparatus, aerial ladder platform vehicles, hose reel jets, and thermal imaging cameras as they worked to extinguish the blaze.

“The roof of the flat was 100 per cent damaged by the fire, with partial damage to the neighbouring flat’s roof. There was also smoke damage to the kitchen of the takeaway shop. Thankfully all people were accounted for, with no reported injuries.”

A warning was issued for the public to avoid the area due to the smoke. Cosham Railway Station platforms had to be evacuated, with staff helping firefighters move people away from the scene.

The blaze prevented trains from stopping at the station. Southern Rail and South Western Railway said all services were suspended “until further notice”. The station was reopened later that evening.

The stop message was given to firefighters just before 9pm. The nearby Whistle Stop Takeaway Cafe sent their thoughts to nearby business owners.

A social media statement said: “After the events of Saturday's fire, we would like to thank everybody who sent messages and offered support to us and our neighbours. We are airing our business out today, so we are closed, but our doors will obviously be open.

“Our thoughts go to all our displaced neighbours during this event and we wish them all the best. The most important thing is that everybody was safe, and no one got hurt. Thanks to the fire brigade.”