A FIRE which broke out in the early hours of the morning has left one of Romsey's oldest buildings with 'significant damage'.

On Sunday, February 23, fire crews were called to St John's House on Church Street after smoke was spotted and alarms sounded in the early hours of the morning

Located in one of Romsey’s oldest thoroughfares, King John’s House and Museum is an accredited museum that encompasses three buildings that contain 800 years of history. 

While fire tore through the building, thankfully, no one was hurt.

By 2.45am, six fire engines and multiple support vehicles from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue service were on the scene tackling the blaze.

Hampshire and IoW Fire Service said: "The scale of the emergency response led to a temporary road closure.

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"Firefighters tackled the blaze in the basement using two jets and two hose reels before deploying ventilation fans to clear the smoke.

"By 9.30am, crews confirmed the fire was fully extinguished, with no remaining hotspots." 

The news that one of Romsey's most loved buildings had endured "significant damage" saw comments from the likes of Caroline Nokes MP who said it was "horrendous news".

The blaze was cleared by 9.30am The blaze was cleared by 9.30am (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking to reporter Isabella Holliday on the scene, a spokesperson from Test Valley Borough Council said: “It started in the basement at about 2am this morning, and spread through the inside of the building.

“It’s devastating really, for this little building.”

The spokesperson added that it was a suspected electrical fire, and the council are now working to board the building up to protect it from the weather.

Six fire engines were called to the sceneSix fire engines were called to the scene (Image: Newsquest)

Chair of the trustees at St John's House Freddie Law Turner said: "Our primary concern is for our staff and visitors, and we are very pleased that no one was injured in this sad event.

"I am also very relieved that the Grade I listed medieval hall, which is one of the most important buildings in Romsey, appears to have been relatively unscathed.

"However, the timber-framed buildings on the ground floor have suffered significant damage and the museum and tea shop will be closed until further notice to allow for a full investigation and evaluation of our position.

"We are very grateful to Hampshire Fire Service, to TVBC for their assistance in making the building secure. and for all the support we have received from the local community.

"We will continue to keep everyone updated as we have more information".