A RESTAURANT will be closed until further notice following a fire in its kitchen.

Firefighters were called to the Mayflower Chinese Restaurant, in May Place, at the Top of the Town, just before 3.30pm on Friday, 15 March, to reports of a fire.

Fire crews from Basingstoke, Overton, Tadley and Rushmoor were on the scene, as well as an ambulance crew, a hazardous area response team and two ambulance officers.

Police cordoned off Central Car Park while Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the kitchen fire on the first floor of the building.

South Central Ambulance Service reported that there were no casualties at the scene of the fire, and the fire service confirmed that everyone had been accounted for.

The fire itself was put out within the hour, with firefighters then using ventilation techniques to clear the area of smoke.

As a result of the fire, the restaurant has had to close ‘until further notice’ while the damage is being assessed.

A note posted in the window of the restaurant said: “A fire broke out in our kitchen causing considerable damage.

“As a result, we will remain closed until further notice. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Customers with a reservation will be contacted over the weekend.

“We will assess the damage and work on repairs to get the Mayflower open and running as soon as possible.

“Thank you for your support and understanding. Sincerely, the management team.”

The Gazette understands that reservations up until April have been cancelled while the damage is being assessed.