40 firefighters needed to tackle Bermondsey workshop blaze

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled a fire at a motorcycle workshop on Spa Road in Bermondsey on Sunday.

Half of the single-storey workshop was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

The London Fire Brigade’s 999 Control Officers received 18 calls about the fire.

LFB station commander Mick Palmer, who attended the incident, said: “Crews worked extremely quickly to extinguish the fire and limit it to the motorcycle workshop. Their hard work prevented the fire from spreading and causing damage to surrounding units.”

The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been caused by a failed lithium battery pack that was on charge for a cordless power tool.

The LFB was called at around 7.30pm and the fire was under control by around 8.20pm. Crews from Dockhead, Old Kent Road, Dowgate, Whitechapel, Shadwell and Deptford fire stations attended the scene.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: “It’s incredibly concerning we are continuing to see a rise in incidents involving lithium batteries.

“Please follow our advice on safe charging and ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.”

Pictured top: Fire at a motorcycle workshop on Spa Road in Bermondsey (Picture: LFB)