Residents Safe After Fire At Ryde Flats

Residents of a block of flats in Ryde have been evacuated following a fire.

Thick smoke was seen coming from the roof of Solent House on Garfield Road shortly before 1pm today (Saturday).

Fire crews from across the Island, including Newport, Shanklin, Cowes, Sandown, Ventnor and Ryde, attended along with an aerial ladder platform.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the blaze using several hose reels, while residents were led from the building.

Some people were treated by paramedics at the scene after leaving the flats with their pets.

Garfield Road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident, with traffic diverted through Union Street.

Firefighters used the aerial platform to access the roof after smoke continued to come from the solar panels. Part of the roof was then pulled apart to allow crews to reach hotspots.

Police officers also attended to help with traffic management and public safety.

A fire service spokesperson has confirmed all residents of Solent House are safe and accounted for.

Police say the fire started in the communal stairwell and its cause is now being investigated.