Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Castle Street, Launceston at 28/11/2013 00:27

At just before 0030hrs this morning, a call was made to the police reporting that a building had collapsed with debris in the street. Firefighters from Launceston Community Fire Station were mobilised and confirmed that a partial collapse of a large chapel building had occurred. Firefighters initiated a search using a thermal imaging camera and initial signs are that no-one is involved but to be certain a Search & Rescue (SAR) dog and specialist Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Team from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service’s headquarters near Exeter have been requested.

Castle Street has been closed to traffic and will remain closed for some considerable time. Members of the public are asked to stay away from the area to allow firefighters to conduct their search.

Update 0430hrs: The SAR dog and USAR team from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue are currently carrying out a search of the building and debris outside.

Final update 0730hrs: Firefighters from Launceston and Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service have completed a full search, within their capability, of the building and vicinity. No-one has been found trapped. The firefighters have made up their equipment and have now left the incident in care of Cornwall Council Building Control.