A BLAZE has broken out at University of Warwick housing this evening with huge flames erupting from the block.
Firefighters raced to the scene with five crews reported in attendance with a police car from 9pm.
Videos of the blaze show the top floor of the university’s Arthur Vick 1 residence engulfed by flames.
A room on the top floor is believed to have been the source of the fire, although this is yet to be confirmed.
Smoke can also be seen rising from the building.
The flames are now reported to be under control, with students inside the building and on the campus evacuated from the scene.
West Midlands Fire service confirmed that they are tackling the fire and have urged people to avoid the area.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: “We have eight crews in attendance in the Canley area, Coventry, where they have responded to fire.
“Please avoid the area, where possible.”
A UoW spokesperson told Warwick University’s The Boar news: “Emergency services are attending a fire on campus in a residence block – Arthur Vick 1.
“Students have been evacuated, and the University is working with the emergency services.
“The accommodation team is providing support to those affected.”
It is unclear whether students will be able to re-enter the block or have to be temporarily housed elsewhere this evening.
One student recounted how residents did not immediately respond to the fire alarm after hearing “two false alarms half an hour earlier”.
The student said: “I thought my flat was joking when they told me we actually needed to leave”.
Warwick Christian Union (WCU) told the University’s publication they will give out hot chocolate and biscuits on campus this evening after their social.
A global illuminations procession was taking place this evening to mark 60 years of the university.
The event included lights, culture, dancing and food, described as a “dazzling international light procession” with a “luminous display” throughout the centre of the campus.
It started at 1.30pm and concluded at 7pm, with an opening ceremony that took place at 5pm.
The University of Warwick’s Arthur Vick Residences are located on the central campus.
It provides self-catered en suite accommodation for students.
Halls surround a landscaped courtyard, and back on to a nature reserve.
Wi-Fi, utility bills and contents insurance are included in the rent, and there is no deposit or guarantor required so the residences are popular among students.
