Ramsgate’s Wetherspoon’s opening date will not be delayed by a fork lift fire inside the building

Photo Mick Bootes

A fire inside Ramsgate’s Royal Victoria Pavilion today (April 4) has not damaged the property.

The Grade II listed Harbour Parade building, which is currently being renovated to create a new Wetherspoon pub, was evacuated this afternoon following a fork lift truck fire.

Emergency crews were called to the scene at 3.42pm when the fork lift burst into flames.

Photo Andy Wright

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “The fork lift truck hired in by subcontractor to lift the new steels into position caught alight. Site personal tried to extinguish it, however due to the diesel engine, their efforts were in vain.

“The building was evacuated safely and there were no injuries.

“Two engines from the fire brigade arrived and extinguished the fork lift truck. Fortunately the damage has been limited to fork lift, all  personnel are safe and the building remains unaffected by the incident.”

The Pavilion is due to open on August 29 and is currently advertising for staff.