Bookies is devastated by blaze

A betting shop has been gutted in a blaze which broke out in the office sending smoke swirling across a Black Country town centre.

Brierley Hill High Street was shut by police for several hours after the alarm was raised. Police and fire chiefs were today still investigating the cause of the blaze at William Hill bookmakers.

The fire broke out at around 11.30 last night causing thousands of pounds of damage at the bookmakers and also causing smoke damage at a neighbouring furniture shop and a sandwich shop.

Seven fire crews including brigades from Brierley Hill, Halesowen, Dudley and Tipton were called to battle the blaze and were able to stop flames spreading to offices on the first floor.

The charred remains of tables and chairs were left scattered throughout the premises as fire crews began the clear up today.

West Midlands Fire Service investigators were on site this morning searching for clues about the blaze.

Police officers were also on site to make sure there was no danger to public waiting at nearby bus stops.

William Hill spokesman Jennie Trest said a management team was on its way to the Brierley Hill shop to assess the damage.