NEARLY a hundred firefighters – including crews from Newton Abbot and Buckfastleigh - tackled a major property fire in Paignton yesterday (Oct 11).

Crews from all across south Devon spent more than 12 hours fighting the fire at commerical building in Torbay Road.

Emergency services rushed to the scene in the town centre just before 5pm yesterday evening after worried witnessed raised the alarm.

At least 16 fire engines were drafted in to combat the inferno which involved a deep fat fryer.

Breathing apparatus sets, several hose reel jets and thermal imaging cameras were used to dampen the flames, which took hold of a part shop, part residential building.

Firefighters were still at the scene looking out for hotspots using a thermal camera and aerial platform at 8.10am this morning.