Overview
- The blaze started at Streamline PopTop on Crowther Industrial Estate on Friday, July 31, and eight Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service appliances fought the fire through the night before crews left at 08:14 the next morning.
- Fire service spokespeople say the origin of the fire remains unconfirmed and formal investigations are ongoing.
- The North East Ambulance Service confirmed there were no serious injuries and no patients required treatment following the incident.
- Wescott Medical Ltd, a neighbour that supplies hospitals, reported the shared wall was blown out and its roof was damaged and leaking, forcing safety cordons, stock checks, insurance claims and the possibility of temporary relocation.
- Thick plumes of smoke were visible for miles, prompting many 999 calls and public advice to keep windows and doors closed while local roads and businesses experienced disruption.