Top-floor flat fire leaves residents out of homes

People living in a block of flats remain out of their homes after a fire on the top floor spread early on Sunday morning.

Firefighters in seven fire engines were sent to Keel House, Dorchester Road, Weymouth, shortly before 01:00 BST where crews found a "well-developed" fire within a flat had spread to the roof.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said 30 firefighters worked to tackle the fire at its height. The building was fully evacuated and crews inside had to leave when the roof became unstable.

The fire service said it was working with police to carry out a fire investigation. Aster Group that manages the building said its teams were supporting residents "during this difficult time".

A spokesperson for the group added: "We're working closely with the emergency services to understand the condition of the buildings and when it may be safe for some customers to return home.

"For those customers that need temporary accommodation, we're working with our partners at Dorset Council to find them appropriate housing."

Dorset Council set up a rest centre for those displaced on Sunday and said it had helped 22 residents with immediate accommodation needs.

Councillor Matt Bell, Dorset Council's cabinet member for public health, prevention and communities said: "Temporary accommodation arrangements are now being put in place for residents who are unable to return home, and transport and meals will be provided as required."