Properties evacuated after bathroom showroom blaze

A major incident was declared as fire crews tackled a major blaze at a bathroom showroom.

Bedfordshire Fire Service said 10 engines, three aerial platforms, two water carriers and an incident command unit were sent to the Kitchen and Bathroom Store on Selbourne Road in Luton at about 06:00 BST on Saturday.

Properties on Wingate Road were evacuated and people in the surrounding area were asked to keep their windows and doors closed due to the smoke.

By 11:50, the fire was extinguished, crews were scaled down and the service said an investigation into the cause would take place. People on Wingate Road were back in by about 17:45.

After arriving at the scene, firefighters were confronted by an "extremely well developed" fire which was spreading rapidly.

Resources from Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire fire services, as well as Bedfordshire Police, were also called to help.

Selbourne Road was partly closed in both directions, which affected the junctions with Arundel Road, Maidenhall Road and Wingate Road.

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As a result of the fire, some people in the area were warned they may experience low to no water pressure and were advised to avoid using electrical appliances that use water, such as washing machines and dishwashers.

Affinity Water said it was aware of the fire and had sent a technician to the site to assist the fire service.

Crews surrounded the fire and used water jets to tackle and contain the blaze, working "incredibly hard under challenging circumstances" to extinguish it.

One firefighter suffered a minor injury before being treated and was able to remain at the scene.

Jason Tai, assistant chief fire officer, said: "This has been an excellent multi-agency response to a dynamic incident.

"We thank all of our partners for their support, particularly our neighbouring fire services who provided resources during this busy period for the fire service nationally.

"A full fire investigation will take place to determine the cause."

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