A family-operated ski shop in southeast London sustained significant damage following a fire that erupted on Thursday evening, according to the London Fire Brigade (LFB).

Approximately 100 firefighters were dispatched to Perry Vale in Forest Hill, where flames had spread from the workshop at the rear of Finches Emporium to the retail area and two residential flats within the structure.

Two individuals and a dog escaped from the first-floor apartment before the arrival of firefighters by climbing onto a flat roof, where they were assisted to safety by members of the public.

One man sustained injuries but did not require hospitalization, and 15 individuals were evacuated from adjacent buildings. They were initially taken to a rest center, though most have since returned to their homes.

A few residents are still under the care of local authorities, the fire service reported.

Fire crews received the call around 6:30 PM BST and worked for five hours to bring the fire under control.

A storage area located behind the shop also suffered considerable fire damage.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jamie Jenkins served as the incident commander

He noted, “Firefighters confronted a fully-developed blaze and labored intensely for several hours to stop it from spreading to nearby properties. This incident was prolonged, with crews working through the night to completely extinguish the fire.”

The LFB employed a 32-meter turntable ladder to use as a water tower to combat the fire from above.

The cause of the fire is currently being considered accidental, believed to stem from hot work being carried out in the workshop at the back of the shop.

Finches Emporium’s website describes the establishment as the “family’s pride and joy” since its inception in 1947. “We have proudly served the Forest Hill community and beyond, sharing our family’s enthusiasm for cycling, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and the great outdoors,” the site states.

Forest Hill Station Commander Mike Watts indicated that a 25-meter cordon would remain in place on Friday at Perry Vale, although the station reopened that morning.

“The brigade has been collaborating closely with the local authorities to assist those impacted by this fire. We will maintain a visible presence in the area and will communicate with local residents and businesses to share fire safety information,” he remarked.