A significant fire broke out at Leekes department store in Talbot Green in the early hours of Friday morning. The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service reported that the incident occurred around 2:30 am, resulting in the closure of the A4222 Llantrisant Road southbound from the A473 to B4264 Heol Miskin until approximately 8 am, when the road was reopened. At the scene, 60 firefighters from five fire crews battled the blaze, which produced large flames and significant smoke.
This unfortunate event unfolded when crews were alerted to a building fire in an outbuilding adjacent to the main store of the department store. The on-site incident commander swiftly responded by mobilising additional resources, including four fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, three water bowsers, an incident command unit, and multiple officers. At the peak of firefighting operations, approximately 60 firefighters were involved in containing and extinguishing the fire, which was successfully brought under control around 5 am.
In a collaborative effort, South Wales Police, National Grid, Wales & West Utilities, and the Salvation Army supported the firefighting teams in preventing the fire from spreading further into the main store, thereby limiting the overall damage. An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway, jointly conducted by the fire service and South Wales Police to determine the origin and development of the blaze.
Leekes promptly issued a statement on their Facebook page, acknowledging the impact of the fire on their Llantrisant store and expressing gratitude towards the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service for their prompt response, which helped prevent the fire from spreading to the main store. Despite the challenges posed by the incident, Leekes aimed to reopen their store by midday, anticipating minimal disruptions.
As the community and authorities responded to the incident, the A4222 southbound road closure was closely monitored, although traffic was reported to be coping well. The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service provided a detailed account of the firefighting efforts and the coordinated response that effectively contained the fire, highlighting the collaboration between emergency services and partner organisations.
In the aftermath of the fire, the community and customers of Leekes showed their support and concern, reflecting a collective appreciation for the swift and effective actions taken by the emergency services. The incident serves as a reminder of the dedication and bravery displayed by firefighters in safeguarding lives and properties during emergencies, underlining the importance of coordinated responses and preparedness in such critical situations.
While the investigation continues to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire at Leekes in Talbot Green, the resilience and professionalism demonstrated by the responding teams have been commendable. The local community stands united in solidarity with those affected by the incident, showcasing the spirit of cooperation and support that defines the region in times of adversity. As the store prepares to resume operations, the focus remains on recovery and restoration, reflecting the resilience of the community in the face of unexpected challenges.