The collapsed roof in Corporation Street, High Wycombe, this afternoon.

11 June 2009

Firefighters and paramedics have rescued a man following the collapse of a roof at a building in High Wycombe. Four other people who were inside at the time were able to get out unaided.

Crews from High Wycombe Fire Station were called to Hurricane Room in Corporation Street at 2.31pm. Two Urban Search and Rescue crews from Aylesbury Fire Station were initially requested but called back before they arrived.

Station Manager John Bull, who also attended the incident, said: "A 300 square metre section of roof comprising timber rafters, felt and grit collapsed. One man was prevented from escaping because of the fallen debris. Firefighters located the man and he was led to safety.

"They then isolated the gas and electricity and surveyed the exterior of the building. We were able to gain access to scaffolding on an adjacent building to view it from above."

Inspector Keith Thompson from High Wycombe Police Station said: “Police are currently helping to ensure public safety at Hurricane Room, Corporation Street, where a roof or ceiling of a building has collapsed.

"As a precaution, Corporation Street has been closed off between the High Street and Castle Street until further notice while the building is being inspected by Wycombe District Council. A man received minor injuries."