An Armagh-based tanning studio owner has been left “heartbroken” after Sunday’s devastating fire at the Umgola shops complex.
Sunny Spot only recently opened and had been working hard and gaining a firm customer base within the local community.
On Sunday afternoon, fire crews Armagh, Dungannon, Lurgan and Portadown raced to the scene at Killylea Road and fought to bring a huge blaze under control.
Four properties – Wine Label, Golden Village Chinese takeaway and Cordelia’s, along with Sunny Spot Sunbeds – were extensively damaged.
A number of upstairs flats were gutted too.
The fire, according to Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, began in the chip shop, which was “unoccupied” at the time.
Several people living above the shops were evacuated to safety after the alarm was raised.
As the businesses have been left to count, the cost, Sunny Spot reacted to the dreadful events unfolding in Armagh.
The business does not know yet when, or if, it will be able to continue.
Sunny Spot Sunbeds owner Diana Drożdż, writing on Facebook, said: “We are absolutely heartbroken seeing our dream and hard work being severely damaged due to the fire next door.
“Shop is closed and honestly at this stage we don’t know when we will be able to access our beautiful premises and how damaged it will be.
“We are only a small family business and have worked so hard to only open up last year.”
Meanwhile, local Councillor Sarah Duffy says she will do everything in her power to help those who have been affected.
The Sinn Féin representative also praised the work of the Fire Service.
“This major blaze has caused significant damage to homes and business units on the Killylea Road,” she said.
“Thankfully no one was injured and I want to praise the Fire Service for all their efforts at the scene to make it safe and prevent even more damage being done.
“I will be working hard to ensure these businesses and residents are fully supported in the days and weeks ahead.”
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