Blaze rips through flats above busy shop – with 2 terrified locals rescued from roof and 5 hospitalised

SEVEN people have been rushed to hospital after a fire ripped through a high street shop.

Around 60 firefighters rushed to the scene in Willesden High Road, North London, shortly after 1pm today.

Two people were rescued from the roof of the shop, before a further five people were taken to hospital.

A spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said: “Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a fire at a shop with flats above on Willesden High Road.

“Part of the ground floor and a small part of the ceiling void between the ground and first floors were alight.

“Firefighters rescued two people from a roof using a short extension ladder.

“Five further people left the property before the Brigade arrived and were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.”

Fire crews were called to the scene at 1.08pm earlier today and battle the blaze for more than two hours before it was finally brought under control at 3.21pm.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is being investigated.

Station Commander Chucks Abili, who was at the scene, said: “Crews worked hard to access the voids and bring the fire under control.

“The fire was producing heavy smoke, so we advised local residents keep their windows and doors closed.

“Willesden High Road is closed between Bertie Road and Hawthorn Road and we’d encourage people to avoid the area this afternoon, particularly as rush hour approaches.”