Attleborough traders have been urged to rally round and offer support after one of their number suffered a devastating fire.

Eastern Daily Press: A photo from the scene of the fire in Attleborough. Picture: Archant/Jess LongA photo from the scene of the fire in Attleborough. Picture: Archant/Jess Long (Image: Archant)

More than 20 firefighters were called out to battle the blaze at Woody's Fish Bar on Church Street.

Crews had to close the street while they tackled the fire, and they remained at the scene for almost five hours.

The property suffered extensive damage and the business will not be able to reopen for some time.

Tony Perkins, town mayor and owner of Tony Perkins Butchers, also in Church Street, said: 'It is always sad to hear of anybody who goes through that. It is a difficult trading situation anyway without having to deal with fire and insurance.

'It is crucial the rest of the traders in the town offer our full support. You just wish the owners the best.'

Mr Perkins said: 'On behalf of the town council, we offer our sympathies and support. We will also do our best to help them through this difficult situation.

'It is a well-liked business in the town and well used. The chaps in there are well liked. It is terrible really.'

The fire was reported at around 6.20pm on Saturday evening and crews from Attleborough, Wymondham, Hingham and East Harling attended. One person was treated at the scene for minor injuries. The flat above the shop also suffered damage but it is understood the person who lives there was not at home at the time.

The owner of the Quickstop shop next door said his

property was undamaged.

Fire investigators were on the scene yesterday, as inquiries continue. Initial findings indicate the blaze may have started in a chip pan.