Whitchurch Sports Centre fire in pictures as investigation takes place

Fire investigations are continuing after a huge blaze at a disused sports centre in Whitchurch. At its peak, 12 fire engines were at the scene, attempting to put out the enormous fire, which could be seen for miles around South Bristol.

The blaze began at the Whitchurch Sports Centre, which has been out of use since the pandemic, at around 10.50am yesterday (Wednesday, August 9). Avon Fire and Rescue crews remained at the scene through the day and into the night trying to put out the flames, with the service confirming its engines finally left the scene this morning (August 10).

Thick, dark smoke could be seen high in the skies over Whitchurch, spotted by some people from as far away as Bristol City Centre. People near the incident reported hearing loud popping noises coming from the blaze.

Read more: Investigation into Whitchurch fire at disused sports centre ongoing

Avon and Somerset Police evacuated some nearby residents from their homes as a precaution. Roads were closed in the area, including the busy Whitchurch Lane and Bamfield, which reopened this morning.

The fire service has said an investigation into the blaze will take place today, the results of which often give the cause of a fire, as well as details on how much property was damaged. A statement given by the the fire service this morning said: "Crews monitored the building overnight, and carried out regular inspections using thermal imaging cameras and gas monitoring equipment.

"No hot spots have been identified and crews have now left the scene. A fire investigation will take place this morning."