These dramatic fires at some of Hull’s most iconic landmarks have left a lasting imprint on those who witnessed or were affected by them.
Some sadly ended in tragedy, others left people without a livelihood. Harsh lessons were learned and new safety measures put in place. Thankfully, Hull and the surrounding area is protected by superb crews from Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, meaning fires of this kind are rare.
Pictures found in the archives of the Hull Daily Mail depict some of the biggest fires witnessed in Hull.
One of the most tragic blaze was raged at the Wensley Lodge residential home in Hessle. On January 5, 1977 a fire broke out in room 11 of the residential home. In all 65 firefighters battled bravely to rescue residents.
A total of 21 of the 49 residents were removed to Hull Royal Infirmary. Sadly, despite all the brave efforts, the blaze claimed the highest number of victims from any single fire in Hull’s history with 11 deaths.
In September 1980, Peter Dinsdale, known as Bruce Lee, was arrested and charged with the murders of those killed in the fire, but he was later exonerated. Dinsdale was convicted of 11 other arson attacks and was responsible for 15 deaths, but the cause of the Wensley Lodge fire remains a mystery.
Another huge fire broke out on Wednesday November 2, 1988 in the Humbrol paint factory on Hedon Road. Such was its ferocity, the blaze could be seen across the city. Sadly, a 17-year-old girl who was working at the factory was killed.
Perhaps one of the most dramatic scenes was the blaze at the Royal Station Hotel in the city centre on October 7, 1990. There were 140 guests staying at the hotel that night. It took 11 hours to get the blaze under control and 11 people were treated in hospital.