NEARLY 100 firefighters from West Sussex and Hampshire tackled a large fire at a former convent in Hunston, near Chichester, on Sunday night.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service was called to the site of the Carmelite Convent at 8.10pm yesterday (Sunday, June 28) when fire was spotted coming from the roof.
Click on the green play button to see video of the blaze
A fire crew from Chichester had been dealing with another incident nearby and arrived on scene in just two minutes.
Debris was falling from the roof of the chapel and firefighting had to be carried out from the safety of a doorway as efforts were concentrated on trying to stop the fire spreading into the main part of the 30m x 30m building.
A water carrier was used to provide water for firefighting, and water was also pumped from nearby lakes.
A total of 44 firefighters wore breathing apparatus to tackle the fire from inside and create a firebreak, stopping it spreading to the main accommodation block by using six jets and monitors.
The premises are not derelict, but have not been occupied for about one year.
There were no reports of any injuries to members of the public, although one firefighter was treated for possible heat exhaustion.
The fire was brought under control and relief crews were in attendance throughout the night, cutting away some of the debris and damping down hotspots.
Red Cross volunteers from the Fire & Emergency Support Service attended to provide welfare facilities to the firefighters.
The main B2145 was closed between the A27 Whyke roundabout and Hunston, with diversions set up by police.
It was likely to be closed until mid-morning because of the number of fire engines and firefighting operations.
The cause of the fire is under investigation but arson has not been ruled out.
A more detailed investigation began at first light on Monday together with police scene of crimes officers and Hattie - the West Sussex Fire Investigation dog specially trained to sniff out any inflammable liquids that may have been used to start the fire.
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