One of Southend's most popular attractions came close to being wrecked by a fire that swept across its roof.
Smoky scene - firefighters tackle the blaze at Westcliff Casino Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL
Staff and customers were evacuated from Westcliff Casino, in Western Esplanade, as smoke billowed into the sky and flames leapt from the roof.
Fire crews were quick to save the day and it was hoped the casino would reopen for business today after being closed last night. The fire started in the kitchen of the terrace bar at 4.15pm yesterday and spread to the offices and roof above.
Police closed part of Southend seafront to traffic for almost three hours as 40 firefighters battled to bring the blaze under control.
Southend station commander Martyn Hodder said his crews found a "serious fire on the premises" with "punishing conditions".
He said: "The management was very lucky they did not have more damage to other areas."
Sally Coles, the casino's group marketing director, hoped the casino would be open today.
Published Wednesday July 28, 2004
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