|
Cutty Sark ravaged by fire |
|
|
|
FIREFIGHTERS WERE PRAISED AFTER battling to save one of London’s most famous tourist attractions, when fire swept through 19th century sea vessel, the Cutty Sark.
Eight fire engines and around 40 firefighters fought the fire on the historic tea clipper at its dry dock in William Walk, Greenwich. An aerial appliance with seven jets was also used at the incident on May 21. London Fire Brigade was called at 0447 and the fire was well under control at 0530. Local firefighters were at the scene within five minutes of the call.
Fire Minister Angela Smith said: "I want to praise the London Fire Brigade for their speed in attacking the fire on the Cutty Sark, bringing the fire under control in 43 minutes. This is in part due to their planning for such an event, gaining the knowledge about the site and its hazards. Without their professional response the loss would have been much greater.”
Commissioner Sir Ken Knight said: “This was a highly professional and effective response at a high profile incident in which every second counted. The swift actions of crews undoubtedly prevented the damage to the Cutty Sark being more widespread.” Members of the public also praised firefighters. Steve Gogle, of Wolverhampton emailed the brigade to say: “The public know what fantastic work you perform daily and it is only due to your quick actions, that a national treasure has been saved.” The forensic examination of the remains of the Cutty Sark is inconclusive as to the cause of the fire. Examination has been carried out jointly between Metropolitan Police Service, London Fire Brigade, Forensic Science Services and a specialist forensic science company employed by the Cutty Sark Trust Insurers.
|
