7OAKS Triathlon goes ahead despite fire and evacuation at leisure centre

SEVENOAKS leisure centre was able to re-open in time for the 7OAKS Triathlon on Sunday despite there being a fire at the premises the day before which led to an evacuation.

A fire broke out in the swimming pool’s plant room of the building in Buckhurst Lane on Saturday afternoon. Firefighters tackled the blaze using four fire engines and a height vehicle, with hose reel jets, water from a hydrant and dry powder extinguishers. Crews used a positive pressure ventilation fan to clear smoke from the first floor.

Kent Police also helped with the evacuation and led people from the building to a safe area. Everyone was accounted for and there were no casualties.

The cause of the fire is not yet known and a fire investigation officer was still at the scene on Monday morning.

Visitors to the centre were able to see a pile of fire extinguishers outside of the entrance which were a reminder of the weekend’s drama.