Sealife Weymouth remains closed after huge fire

It said no staff or animals were hurt after a blaze broke out at a nearby electricity substation

An aquarium in Dorset has temporarily closed to visitors after a fire broke out at a nearby electricity substation on Sunday.

Sealife Weymouth remains shut as “a precaution” on Monday (July 13) although no buildings were affected.

In a statement, the Merlin-owned attraction said no animals, staff or visitors were hurt and that it would reopen to the public “once it has been confirmed it is safe to do so”.

“If you were due to visit us on this day, please contact us on 01305 761070 to rearrange your visit or request a refund,” Sealife said. “We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.”

Emergency services were called to Preston Beach Road at 3.45pm on Sunday after a reports the substation was on fire and flames had spread to nearby trees and bushes.

A total of 12 firefighters used two hose reels, two main jets and foam to extinguish the fire, which reportedly also caused power to be lost to around 100 nearby properties.

Firefighters remained on the scene beyond 7.30pm on Sunday, for several hours dampening down.

A spokesperson for SeaLife said: “Following a fire at an electricity substation on land adjacent, the aquarium will remain closed on Monday. The fire was contained to an outside area, and did not spread to the aquarium buildings.

“No employees or guests were harmed by this incident, and all animals remain safe and well in our care. The aquarium will re-open to guests once it has been confirmed it is safe to do so.”

It comes as parts of the UK face an “exceptional” risk for wildfires over the next few days amid record-breaking temperatures.

The UK Health Security Agency’s amber and yellow heat health alerts, which were due to be lifted on Sunday, are now in effect until 9pm BST on July 15.

Temperatures of 35°C or higher have now been recorded in May, June and July of the same year for the first time in the UK weather record, as heatwave conditions are expected to continue this week, according to the Met Office.

A National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) spokesperson said: “When the weather stays hot and dry, it only takes one spark to start a wildfire. What can begin as a small fire can spread incredibly quickly, putting people, homes, wildlife and our countryside at risk.

“We’re asking everyone to take extra care outdoors, whether that’s avoiding disposable barbecues in the countryside, parks or moorlands, or making sure cigarettes are fully extinguished. A few simple actions can make a huge difference and help prevent fires before they start.”