Houses evacuated as fire rips through kirk

EMERGENCY: Nearby residents told to leave their homes as heat cracks windows

A former Dundee church has been destroyed by a massive blaze.

Flames could be seen shooting through the roof of Lochee Old Parish Church as the fire engulfed the building.

Residents in nearby homes were evacuated as the heat from the inferno caused their windows to crack and several roads surrounding the church were closed.

Police said there were no reports of any injuries or of anyone being trapped inside the building.

As officers set up cordons to ensure public safety, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service despatched eight appliances, including two aerial ladders.

The church, built in 1830, has been vacant for some time but it is understood some groups still used the rear of the building.

People took to the streets to watch as the fire raged and Lochee councillor Michael Marra said: “The fire is right through the building.

“You can still see the flames coming out of it.

“People have been evacuated from their houses on Bright Street. The first concern has to be the safety of people in the area.

“The windows of the flats opposite have been cracking so people have been asked to leave.”

The residents were put up in the Sinclair Street sheltered housing complex as a temporary measure.

Local woman Lorraine Paterson said she was devastated to witness the church’s demise.

“It’s Lochee’s most beautiful building. It’s a real favourite so to see this is heartbreaking,” she said.

“It’s been earmarked for housing for ages but it never started. Lochee people were glad because they love the church.”

Lorraine, whose mother used to own a wool shop in the area, said a group had been formed to promote Lochee High Street.

A police spokesman said that as the blaze developed officers called on Dundee City Council to establish official road closures.

Half of Lochee High Street was shut, along with Methven Street and Bright Street. It was expected that further road closures may have to be put in place.

It’s a real favourite so to see this is heartbreaking. RESIDENT LORRAINE PATERSON

Pictures: Claire Warrender/Dougie Nicolson. Above: the flames light up the night sky as the derelict Lochee landmark burns. Below: firefighters on an aerial platform tackle the blaze.