A FIRE in one of the fryers at a Newton Abbot fish and chip shop caused ‘severe damage’, firefighters have said.

Smoke was first seen issuing from Market Fish and Chip Shop just before eight o’clock on Sunday evening.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service soon descended upon the popular takeaway, with several appliances arriving at the scene in quick succession.

A cordon was setup as fire crews began to tackle the blaze, which started when one of the fryers caught fire.

The fire spread to the extraction system and the flat roof.

An additional three fire engines were soon dispatched, joining the five already on site.

An aerial ladder platform was also deployed to help contain the fire.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: ‘The fire involved the kitchen and shop front.

‘There was severe fire and smoke damage to the ground floor and slight smoke damage to the first floor residential flat above the shop.’

News of the fire quickly spread to social media, with comments of condolence coming in just as fast.

‘That’s so sad, they are lovely staff, and the best food in the area - what a shame’ one person said.

‘Hope all are safe, such a shame. My sister and I had brilliant food on Saturday, couldn’t fault it’ said another.