A major fire has ripped through a historic hotel in Midhurst.<br /><br />Firefighters were called to the Angel Inn in North Street at 1.08am this morning.<br /><br />Fifteen fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms, two water carriers and an off-road vehicle and high volume pump were dispatched.<br /><br />More than 30 people were evacuated from the buildings. A relief centre has been set up to assist residents, including Ukranian refugees.<br /><br />The Angel Inn is one of the oldest buildings in the town.<br /><br />West Sussex Fire and Rescue has advised residents to keep their doors and windows closed as there is a large plume of smoke in the area.<br /><br />Surrey Fire & Rescue Service, Hampshire & Isle of White Fire & Rescue Service, Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service are also present to assist with the operation.<br /><br />Sussex Police has released a statement at about 10.30am today:<br /><br />"We are continuing to support our emergency services partners with a large fire which occurred at a hotel in North Street, Midhurst, around 1.20am today.<br /><br />"A number of people including Ukrainian refugees were safely evacuated from the building and have been provided with temporary accommodation; no casualties have been reported at this time.<br /><br />"A police cordon remains in place as a precaution and local traffic is being diverted.<br /><br />"The cause of the fire remains under investigation and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service remains the lead agency at this time.<br /><br />"We thank you for your patience and understanding with this ongoing incident."
