Blazing alcohol fuels flames at off-licence

A convenience store was gutted in a blaze fuelled by gallons of alcohol pouring from bottles which shattered following an arson attack in the Black Country today.

Eight families, who heard sounds "like gunfire" as bottles exploded, had to leave their homes at the height of the blaze.

Bargain Booze in Dibdale Road, Milking Bank, Dudley, was engulfed by flames which shot through the roof at 4.30am. The blaze had spread from a stolen van which was set alight next to the store.

More than 25 firefighters were called to tackle the fire, and a hydraulic platform was needed to direct water onto the blazing roof.

Four homes in Badminton Close and four in Salisbury Close were evacuated but the wind directed flames away from the homes.

Fire crews remained at the scene today, and policeare also investigating the fire.

Rush hour traffic along Milking Bank and Dibdale Road was brought almost to a standstill because of fire hoses across the carriageway.

Stella Farmer of Badminton Close said: "Everything was bathed in a golden glow from the fire. The flames were shooting through the roof of the store."

Watch Commander Brian Morris of Brierley Hill fire station said: "Around 80 percent of the store has been destroyed by the fire.

"Although the outer brickwork is still standing, both the roof and inside is totally destroyed."