A devastating overnight fire has completely gutted a cherished 182-year-old church in Glasgow, causing a partial collapse of the historic structure.
Emergency Response to the Blaze
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) was alerted to the blaze at Pollokshaws Parish Church on Shawbridge Street in the early hours of Sunday morning. Crews arrived at the scene shortly before 3am to find the building well alight. Initially, two fire engines were dispatched, but a third was quickly called for reinforcement due to the severity of the fire.
Firefighters have been tackling the flames from outside the church due to the significant danger of further collapse. A high-reach appliance remained on site alongside three other fire appliances, with crews still in attendance late into the morning. The SFRS has not yet confirmed the fire is fully extinguished.
Scene of Devastation at Historic Landmark
The scale of the damage is immense. Aerial views show the wooden foundations of the church roof completely scorched, with the blackened interior visible from above. The church, which dates back to 1843, has been left in ruins. Part of the building has already collapsed as a result of the intense flames.
Local authorities have closed Shawbridge Street, and as a precaution, flats on either side of the church were evacuated. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
Community Reaction and Official Response
Local Councillor Sean Ferguson expressed his deep sadness at the loss. He stated on social media platform X that he would be liaising with Police Scotland and the SFRS in the coming days for updates. "The church has stood for over 180 years and is a cherished local landmark," he wrote, thanking emergency services for their efforts.
The news has sparked an outpouring of grief from the local community on social media. Many residents shared personal connections to the building, with one person noting they were married there and their children were christened within its walls. Others lamented the loss of hundreds of years of local history and records, fearing the destruction of more than just a physical structure.
Police and fire service investigations into the cause of the blaze are expected to begin once the site is made safe.
