All visitors and staff were evacuated from the cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral cordoned off after a fire(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
Liverpool Cathedral was evacuated on Friday afternoon after a fire broke out in the building’s tower. Smoke was seen billowing from the top section of the landmark, as crews from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) were called to St James’ Mount shortly before 2.50pm on May 1.
Firefighters confirmed the blaze had taken hold on the top-floor balcony of the tower and was caused by an electrical fault. The main body of the fire was brought under control at around 3.22pm, with crews remaining at the scene to ensure the building was safe.
Two fire engines and an aerial appliance attended, with firefighters seen working from the tower balcony. A cordon was put in place outside the cathedral’s entrance on Cathedral Gate.
Staff and visitors were evacuated, and members of the public were turned away after being told the cathedral would remain closed for the rest of the day.
Carol and Liz, who were inside the cathedral café at the time celebrating Liz’s birthday, said they were suddenly asked to leave. Liz said: “We didn’t hear a fire alarm, but staff came over and told us to go straight away.
Fire at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral (Image: Supplied)
“I was halfway through my cake but they told us to leave everything. I’m hoping I’ll get another one when we go back in.
“I’m astounded to be honest. I keep thinking what was up there that could catch fire? It could only be electrical.”
A group of visitors from Tennessee, who had arrived in Liverpool as part of a cruise aboard the Majestic Princess, said they were unable to enter the cathedral.
One woman said: “We came to visit, but were told it was closed because of a fire. We just hope it’s something small; we’d hate to see any damage.”
The group added it was their first visit to the city and they hope to return to the cathedral in future.
A spokesperson for Liverpool Cathedral said: “We are aware of the fire at our site and apologise for any concern or disruption caused.
A cordon was put in place outside the cathedral
“We are working with the relevant authorities as investigations continue. The cathedral is now closed for the remainder of today.
“We thank the fire and rescue service for their swift response. We expect to reopen as normal tomorrow, although the tower will remain closed.”
A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said crews were alerted at 2.44pm and arrived on scene within five minutes.
They added: “Firefighters responded to reports of a fire at the top of the tower, with smoke visible. Crews confirmed this was an electrical fire on the balcony at the top of the cathedral.
“The fire has been extinguished and personnel are working with onsite staff to isolate utilities and make the scene safe. This incident is ongoing and people are advised to avoid the area.”