Major fire in Roscrea store

A MAJOR fire in one of the top retail outlets in Roscrea has caused devastation among people in the town.

Bernie’s SuperValu store was extensively damaged in the blaze that broke out in the early hours of Tuesday morning last, and continued to rage on for several hours.

“It’s absolutely shocking news,” local Fianna Fáil concillor Michael Smith told The Guardian.

“People are absolutely heartbroken in the town,” said Cllr Smith, who added that everyone held a deep regard and respect for the owners, the Colclough family.

“The Colcloughs have a long family tradition in the retail sector here in Roscrea. They are a real powerhouse behind lots of community development initiatives in town over the years.”

Cllr Smith said the store provided much-needed employment for generations of local people.

“Whether it was supporting our young people earning some money to get through college, or people looking for a first job, the Colclough family were always there to give people that chance and opportunity.

“It has been a long tradition with the Colcloughs as a family who always put their shoulder to the wheel, and they were never found wanting.

“They are just a lovely family to work for and to step up and support the community.

“I’m personally heartbroken for them, and any help that can be given to them will be given by everybody.”

Cllr Smith said the destruction of the store would have a major economic and social impact on Roscrea.

“To have seen the pictures of the blazing building in the centre of town. It’s so sad to see such a vital retail business so badly damaged.”

A number of people were living in apartments above the store, but Cllr Smith said that - thanks to the emergency services acting swiftly - everyone escaped unharmed.

“It just happened so fast, and it’s a miracle that everybody got out unscathed. It was miraculous work by the emergency services.”

The store is situated opposite the garda station in the town and extends back to Gantly Road.  “It’s a huge store, so the impact on the town is going to be awful,” said Cllr Smith.

The alarm was raised shortly before 2am.

Units from Roscrea, Nenagh and Cloughjordan fire service attended and fought the fire for several hours.

Vast amounts of black smoke were blowing over the town on Tuesday morning as the emergency services battled to bring the fire under control. The main street of the town was closed to traffic. Adjacent buildings were reported to have sustained smoke damage.