Extensive Fire Damages Cherrymore Kitchens & Bedrooms
A significant fire caused extensive damage to the kitchen and bedroom warehouse of Cherrymore Kitchens & Bedrooms, a family-operated business located in Donegal Town, County Donegal.
Nearly 60 firefighters were deployed to combat the blaze on Thursday night.
In a social media statement issued on Friday, the company confirmed that no individuals were present on site during the incident. The statement also expressed gratitude towards the emergency services and staff at the nearby Donegal Waste site for their assistance during the event, as well as appreciation for the community's patience.
Emergency Response and Damage Assessment
Donegal County Council (DCC) reported that 58 firefighters attended the scene. They indicated that a storage area within the building was "largely destroyed," with other sections suffering smoke damage.
Firefighting Efforts Continue
Fire crews remained on site on Friday morning to continue operations.
There have been no reported injuries related to the fire.
DCC stated that emergency services responded promptly following a 999 call received at 22:46 local time.
"Following a 999 call, the first brigade responding from Donegal Town recognised the extent of a well-established fire and called in additional resources from Ballyshannon, Bundoran, Killybegs, Stranorlar and Letterkenny," the council said.
They added that the fire appeared to be concentrated in a storage area containing large quantities of wood used in the business's production process.
Three crews were engaged on Friday morning in damping down the fire.
"Our thoughts are with the McLaughlin family, owners of Cherrymore, along with their staff, suppliers and customers, all of whom have been affected by this very serious incident," DCC said.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Support
In a statement on Friday, An Garda Síochána, the Irish police service, described the situation as an "ongoing incident."
The Ballybofey and Stranorlar Chamber of Commerce also issued a statement via social media, extending their thoughts to the family who own the business.
The chamber highlighted the particular devastation of the event occurring in the firm's 30th anniversary year and noted the significant employment the business provides.
"The chamber described the facility as 'one of the most advanced and modern factories in the whole of Ireland.'"
"We as a chamber will do our utmost to help in any way we can," it concluded.
