Fire at Mandarin Oriental

Experts were assessing damage over the weekend after a fire at London's 5-star Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park caused guests to be evacuated just seven days after completion of what was hailed as "the most extensive restoration in its 115-year history" (BTN last week).

The hotel has closed while the cause of the fire is investigated and no date has been announced for reopening. Mandarin said all guests had been relocated and future guests unable to find alternatives would be refunded and no cancellation fee charged.

More than 100 firefighters were sent to control the blaze as guests including the singer Robbie Williams climbed several floors down external fire escapes. One guest told the Telegraph there was “a suggestion the fire started on the roof of the Mandarin, where they have been carrying out building work”.

Other witnesses praised the efficiency of hotel personnel in evacuating the building. There were no reports of any injuries among the 36 guests and 250 staff members who were led to safety.

The London Fire Brigade said the fire reached several floors but was quickly extinguished, with about 120 firefighters and 20 engines in attendance at the 12-storey historic building.

www.mandarinoriental.com/london/hyde-park/luxury-hotel

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