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Fire damages community centre roof

Gina Farmer A firefighter aims a jet of water at the steeply-pitched roof of Emsworth Community Centre. At least eight other people, including firefighters and members of the public, stand nearby.Gina Farmer
Fire crews spent more than two hours at Emsworth Community Centre

A fire has damaged the roof of a community centre, causing the facility to close for several weeks.

Crews from six Hampshire fire stations were called at shortly after 16:00 GMT on Tuesday to Emsworth Community Centre in North Street.

They found smoke billowing from the building, which had been evacuated, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said.

It took more than two hours before the incident was declared over.

The fire service said about a third of the roof was damaged.

On Facebook, the centre posted: "Due to this afternoon's fire, the centre will be closed for the next couple of weeks."

A handful of well-wishers, including neighbouring Emsworth Fire Station, replied with offers of help.

The centre is run by Emsworth Community Association, a locally-owned charity, according to its web page.

It hosts more than 80 activities each week, including exercise, baby and adult education classes, the site says.

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