Eye-witnesses have told of the moment they heard “explosions” seconds before a building went up in flames.
More than 20 firefighters were called to the huge blaze at a workshop at Holyhead Marina, Newry Beach, at around 9.10pm yesterday (Thursday, August 23).
Massive orange flames and black plumes of smoke could be seen billowing from the building labelled Trinity Marine – next to the town’s lifeboat station.
It is understood that the workshop is used to maintain and repair boats.
The area had to be evacuated with RNLI volunteers removing their inland lifeboat to protect it from the encroaching flames.
Fire chiefs also warned nearby residents to keep their windows and doors closed while the public was urged to stay away from the area.
Onlookers told how the scene was “crazy” after at least two loud explosions boomed followed by the sound of sirens.
Chris Tatam was eating a meal in nearby Langdons restaurant when he saw the fire take hold of the building.
He told the Daily Post: “It just went up so quick. A man who I think was a manager at the restaurant ran outside and got hold of the fire brigade – I think he may have been a part-time firefighter himself.
“Our car was parked near the building that was on fire so we had to run out and move it quickly."
He added: “It is such a shame as it’s an old building and it looks like there could be a lot of damage.
"It’s quite windy and that doesn’t seem to have helped but the fire service got here quickly and have been doing a great job – they seem to be getting it under control. I heard two or three loud bangs. Nobody seems to be injured which is good news.”
Another witness said: “There is a major incident at Holyhead Marina. I heard two massive explosions – I don’t even know how to describe it I’ve never heard anything like it before. Then we heard loads of sirens in the air.”
The roof of the building has collapsed and Holyhead RNLI said that their building was “battered and bruised” but remains “operational”.
Nobody is believed to have been injured with the Welsh Ambulance Service confirming they were not required to attend.
A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “We were called to reports of a fire at Holyhead Marina at 9.10pm. We sent four fire engines to the scene and a special command unit. The fire is believed to have involved an industrial workshop.
“A stop was called at 11.52pm but all appliances and crews remain at the scene where they are dampening down.”
Tonight’s fire comes just months after the marina was devastated by Storm Emma.
Winds wreaked havoc in March sinking and wrecking around 80 boats resulting in millions of pounds worth of damage.
The cause of the blaze is not yet clear but an investigation is expected to take place.
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