Audlem, Cheshire — Friday 1 May, 7:13pm
Emergency services were called to a suspected roof fire at a disused building on School Lane in the village of Audlem on Friday evening.
A fire engine from Audlem and two from Crewe attended the scene, alongside a rapid response rescue unit from Middlewich, following reports of smoke coming from the roof and concerns that people may have been inside.
Six firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building using hose reel jets to tackle the blaze and conduct a full search. Crews confirmed that all individuals were accounted for.
The Grade II listed building is a former grammar school and nursing home founded in 1655 which is currently marked as ‘sold subject to contract’ on Rightmove.
The building’s sign — now hidden by trailing ivy.
The fire was believed to be located within the roof space, prompting the use of a drone to assess the extent of the damage. Firefighters identified a blockage in the chimney, which they cleared using specialist tools and chimney rods. Debris was dampened down, and temperatures were closely monitored with a thermal imaging camera.
Initial findings suggest the fire may have originated from an open fireplace.
The incident was brought under control without reports of injury. Investigations are ongoing.