The owner of an Armagh chip shop, which was destroyed in a fire on Sunday morning, says “there are no words to explain the sadness and heartbreak”.
Cordelia Malone, proprietor of Cordelia’s chippy on the Killylea Road, conveyed her devastation through her daughter on social media.
“Absolutely soul destroying to watch your whole life burn to pieces in front of you,” the post read.
“Everything you’ve built just gone.
“The money you put into it, the hours on end of work to make your business stay afloat, more or less your home because that is were you spend most of your time.”
The post continued: “We do not know what happened, we don’t know where this fire has started; it seems to be from the back but we will know more over the next few days.
“Our hearts go out to each and every business that has been affected…there are no words to explain the sadness and heartbreak. Please God we all come back bigger and better than before.”
A spokesperson for the NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said the cause of the blaze was accidental.
Fire appliances from Keady, Banbridge, Dungannon, Lurgan and Lisburn, as well as an aerial appliance and a Command Support Unit all attended the scene.
“Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in four shop units and two first floor apartments on Killylea Road, Armagh,” said the spokesperson.
“Firefighters extinguished the fire using four jets and two hose reels. The cause of the fire was accidental and the incident was dealt with by 3.15pm. The scene was handed over to the PSNI.”
Sinn Féin councillor, Sarah Duffy, praised the NIFRS for their actions in dealing with the incident.
“This was a major blaze causing devastating damage to businesses units at the bottom of Drumarg in the city, but we are thankful that there are no injuries.
“It is essential that businesses impacted upon receive all support possible. These business owners work hard to serve the people of our city and I would urge our community to help in any way that we can.
“Our community is once again deeply indebted to the officers of the Fire Service for their efforts under such dangerous conditions.”
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe has been launched by Clair Bevin.
She wrote: “Everyone will now be aware of the devastating fire that broke out at the homes and business units on the Killylea Road.
“This fire has caused damage and in some cases completely destroyed the livelihoods of local residents and business owners. The local businesses provide an invaluable service to our Armagh community on a daily basis, and have carried out so many charitable acts in the past.
“With that being said, members of our community and further afield have suggested a GoFundMe, all proceeds of this fund will be shared among the residents and business owners, to try and help in some way as they begin to come to terms with the effects of this incident.
“All donations, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and will make a difference. Let’s get behind those affected and show what an amazing community we have here in Armagh.”
A target of £10,000 has been set. So far £1,870 has been raised.
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