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Firefighters are battling a fire in Exeter which is threatening what is believed to be the oldest hotel in England.
The fire is thought to have started at an art gallery facing Exeter Cathedral, and has already destroyed neighbouring buildings and spread to the Royal Clarence Hotel, the roof of which has already been destroyed.
@DSFireUpdates doing an amazing job tackling the #fire in #Exeter. pic.twitter.com/lZiSKviqrW
— Devon & Cornwall and Dorset Police Drone Team (@PoliceDrones) October 28, 2016
Local historian Dr Todd Gray told BBC News that the buildings under threat and those already destroyed were “hugely significant” for the city.
Fire crews are currently at work at the site – a block of buildings on Cathedral Yard – using six breathing apparatus, one main jet, two monitors from a hydro platform, two ground monitors and also a drone.
A statement from Somerset & Devon Fire and Rescue Service said crews were making “steady progress” and police have closed off the area.
A spokesperson from the hotel said: “We are continuing to monitor the situation and send our sympathy to our neighbours and all those affected by the fire.”
