Fire 'severely damages' South Northamptonshire aquatics centre but dozens of animals saved

An aquatics centre in south Northamptonshire has been left severely damaged after a fire in the early hours of this morning (Monday, May 25).

More than 30 firefighters were called to Hobby Fish on the A5 between Potterspury and Old Stratford at around 3.50am.

Crews managed to stop the flames from spreading to the neighbouring aquarium and reptile shop and saved more than 50 animals, including pythons, tarantulas and corn snakes.

The A5 remains closed in both directions between the two villages while the fire is being investigated.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service area manager Paul Greenwood said: “Although part of the building has been severely damaged by fire, the incident could have been much worse if it hadn’t have been for the effective tactics of the fire crews to stop the spread of the fire.

"The crews worked very hard under difficult circumstances and managed to rescue around 50 exotic animals including pythons, corn snakes and tarantulas, which were all at risk from the spread of fire and smoke.”

More than 30 officers from The Mounts, Mereway, Moulton, Corby and Thames Valley fire stations attended the blaze.

Residents in the area were asked to close their windows and doors as the smoke was drifting across the A5.

Wrigglies reptile shop, which is next-door to Hobby Fish, posted on Facebook that it is closed as the site remains 'very unsafe'.

"Our shop is ok at the moment and all animals have been evacuated. Emergency services are still on site and as always, doing an incredible job," the post adds.