18 dramatic photographs as firefighters tackle blaze in South Shields garage
At 10.40am this morning (October 6) seven appliances, including an Aerial Ladder Platform vehicle, and over 25 firefighters were sent to tackle a blaze which had started in Garden Lane Garage, at Evans Yard and spread to Tip Top Tyres.
Flames could be seen engulfing the roof of the building while plumes of smoke billowed into the sky and could be seen right across the Templetown area.
While no one is believed to have been injured in the inferno, there is extensive damage to the garage which owner John Boak, 67, said had left him feeling lost for words and unsure of when the business would reopen.
Fortunately damage to the tyre workshop was limited to a corner section of the roof.
Check out the following 18 dramatic images which capture the blaze and the devastating aftermath.
1. South Shields blaze
Firefighters have been tackling a large blaze at a garage in South Shields. Photo: TWFRS
2. Helpless
Business owners and workers stand helpless as the blaze starts to take hold. Photo: Contributed
3. Still burning
It took over 25 firefighters and seven appliances "several hours" to bring the blaze under control. Photograph: TWFRS Photo: TWFRS
4. No go
The area around the garage was blocked off by police as people were told to "avoid the area". Photo: SN