News

Fire alert in Old Elvet

(18 January 2006)

Fire crews were called to part of the Anthropology Department in Durham after staff noticed an intense smell of burning today.

Checks revealed a blown component in a fluorescent light fitting in a short passage off a first-floor landing. This had caused the smell plus a small amount of smoke. The building, 44 Old Elvet, contains staff offices. Only four people were inside at the time and they quickly left and raised the alarm. They returned when the fire officers and University Estates & Buildings staff gave the all clear. There was no damage to the building but the light unit is being replaced. Two fire engines and police attended. The street was closed to other traffic for about half an hour.