Fire sweeps through row of shops

The fire started inside a unisex hairdressing salon

A fire has swept through a terrace in a north Cornwall town, seriously damaging several flats and shops.

The fire started in Liana's hair salon on Queen's Street, Bude, and spread through the roof into a neighbouring estate agent and a pet shop.

Three people were evacuated from upstairs flats. No-one was injured, but a tortoise died in the pet shop.

Investigations are continuing into the cause of the fire which is thought to have been accidental.

Two fire engines from Bude, one from Launceston, and two from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service attended the incident after it was reported at about 0250 BST.

'Can't believe it'

Nearby residents said they heard a bang when the fire broke out.

Fire investigation officer Allan Guest said: "The problem is that there were no fire stops in the roof which allowed the fire to spread horizontally either way."

Another salon is reported to have offered help

Salon owner Michelle Bowden said: "It's upsetting for staff and customers.

"I can't believe it yet, it's difficult to take in."

Another hairdresser in Bude has reportedly offered to share premises with staff from the fire-hit salon.

Mayor of Bude-Stratton Peter La Broy said: "I'm shocked that a small business in the town could suffer so badly so quickly.

"But thank goodness no-one was hurt.

"Bude is a small town and I hope we can all rally round to help."