Retailer Vows To Rebuild After Fire Destroys Bike Shop

A devastating fire has gutted a long-standing bicycle shop in Claudy, County Londonderry, causing an estimated £500,000 in stock losses, according to the business owner. Brian Cassidy, owner of Claudy Cycles, spoke about the emotional toll of the incident. “Thirty years of your life, gone in one night, it’s hard to take,” he said. “But I’m determined to rebuild.”

The fire broke out at the shop on Baranailt Road and is believed to have started accidentally, according to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS). At the height of the blaze on Thursday, three fire engines, a water tanker, and crews from Derry and Dungiven were deployed to tackle the flames. Firefighters used two jets and two hose reels to bring the blaze under control. The scene was declared safe shortly after midday.

Mr Cassidy said the alarm was raised by a passing lorry driver who noticed smoke while on his way to work and quickly contacted emergency services. Despite firefighters’ efforts, the shop and its contents were completely destroyed, including dozens of high-end bicycles, some valued at over £4,000 each. “It’s a massive loss, but we’re not giving up,” Cassidy added.

The importance of fire risk assessment is once again highlighted. In this case a traditional bike shop however, newer electrically powered technologies entering many business premises where this was not the case previously. Bikes, cars and other electrical hand held devices are now commonplace across all aspects of a business located in all areas. SS Systems are at the forefront of recent changes in how these newer electrically powered technologies can be identified for any risk assessment.

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