Mysterious blaze hits old bank building

A mysterious fire which broke out in the old HFC bank building in Winkfield in the early hours of Friday morning kept firefighters busy all night.

They were called to the building in North Street soon after midnight and stayed until midday. Four pumps were used.

The 70m by 30m building was in the process of being demolished but the firefighters had to make sure the blaze stayed under control and that flying embers did not threaten a nearby caravan site.

Persimmon Homes Southern is demolishing the old bank so that 22 luxury five and six-bedroom houses can be constructed on the spot.

Construction director Barry Churchhouse said: “We are currently working alongside the police to help with their investigations into the cause of the fire.

“The site is surrounded by secure boundary fencing and work is continuing as normal with no delay as a result of the fire. Construction of the properties is due to commence in October as planned.”