Downpatrick Convent Of Mercy on fire: 'Thoughts with firefighters' as smoke fills sky

Firefighters are tackling a huge fire in Downpatrick, Co Down. Smoke and flames can be seen billowing from the Convent Of Mercy on St Patrick’s Avenue in the town with the roof well ablaze.

The fire was reported at around 7pm on Sunday evening, June 28, reports BelfastLive. A statement from the PSNI said: “Emergency services are currently dealing with a large fire in the Stream Street area of Downpatrick. Police would ask members of the public to keep away from this area to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Horror footage from the scene shows thick smoke billowing across the sky.

Colin McGrath, a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Northern Ireland, posted on Facebook: “So very sad to see the old convent building in Downpatrick engulfed in flames. “While it has stood derelict for some time, it remains such a beautiful and iconic part of our town’s skyline.

“It’s heartbreaking to see it like this. My thoughts are with the firefighters working to bring the blaze under control.

“I hope they stay safe and that the fire can be contained before it spreads any further.”