MORE than 40 flats were evacuated after a fire erupted in the early hours of this morning.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service required 12 fire engines and two height vehicles to tackle the blaze on Crabble Road in Dover.
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Crews quickly evacuated 42 flats with Dover District Council working around the clock to offer additional support.
Two people were assessed at the scene for smoke inhalation whilst five people were treated on the scene by ambulance crews for minor injuries, local media reports.
A volunteer response team also attended to help provide welfare support to displaced residents.
Firefighters responded to calls made just before 1am as flames could be seen coming from the building.
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The flats have been built in a former paper mill which also houses a gym, store and escape room attraction.
Crabble Hill has also been sealed off by police from Buckland Bridge to Pioneer Road.
Ellie Gibbs told KentOnline: “It is pretty heartbreaking that this has happened during the Easter holiday.”
Stephen Lane, of nearby Oswald Road in Dover, said: "I could see the fire brigade with high hose jets still putting out the flames on the roof. It is terrible."
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A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: "I was woken up by the noise at 3am and have been kept awake since.
“I have never seen so many fire engines and police cars in one place before."
An investigation has been launched as the cause of the fire remains unknown.
Local media has reported that up to 30 families have been looked after by the council after the incident.
It is also thought the Red Cross are helping to support those directly affected with temporary accommodation being offered in the interim.
Residents have taken to social media after witnessing the tragic incident.
Others have shared a gofundme page in the hopes of raising money for those affected.
The fundraiser read: "Urgent Help Needed – Fire Relief for Two Friends
"This Easter, two of our close friends lost everything in a devastating flat fire. Thankfully, they are safe, but the damage has taken away their home and all their belongings.
"We’re reaching out to the community for support. Any donation—big or small—will go directly toward helping them rebuild their lives and cover essential needs like clothes, furniture, and daily essentials.
"If you’re able to help or share this message, it would mean the world.
"Everything will help, thank you for kindness."
Meanwhile, The Escape Goat Escape Rooms has written an important update on social media.
The Facebook post said: "Due to a fire in the building next door early this morning, we’ve had to close all remaining escape room slots for today. We’re currently within the police cordon and, while we’re incredibly thankful to be dealing with smoke damage only, our thoughts are with our neighbours who’ve been more directly affected.
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"Thank you for your understanding and support – we hope to be back up and running as soon as it's safe to do so."
Kent Fire and Rescue Service has been approached for comment.
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