RESIDENTS and visitors to Salisbury have expressed their solidarity with a city centre restaurant as it deals with the aftermath of a large fire.

Emergency services were called to Lah Kok in Fisherton Street last Thursday (December 4) evening after a fault with a deep fat fryer.

Co-founder of the east Asian restaurant, Shaun Wu, issued a social media statement: “We are profoundly grateful to the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Brigade for their swift response.

“Unfortunately this means we’ll be closed until further notice. I am also overwhelmed by the love and support shown by our neighbours and the wider community.

“We are devastated by what has happened and will share further updates in due course.”

There has been an outpouring of heartfelt wishes for the business, which has been busy cancelling bookings at what is a crucial time of year for the hospitality sector.

Ruth Harvey said: “So sorry to hear this. You guys are fantastic. You are a fundamental part of the community in Salisbury and we will all want to support you.”

Susan Blenkinsop added: “We were so devastated to hear this. You have the most incredible work ethic and are an inspiration to so many. Lah Koh is an amazing place.”

Andy Amor commented: “My wife and I are travelling to Salisbury next week, primarily to visit Lah Koh. We are totally devastated for you and the team… We both wish you all the best and really look forward to sitting down in our favourite restaurant very soon!”

Fisherton Street was closed for several hours, and a cordon was put in place between Summerlock Approach and Malthouse Lane. The road did not reopen until the following morning.

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said: “A total of eight pumping appliances attended, from Salisbury, Wilton, Ludgershall, Amesbury x 2, Tisbury along with Romsey and St Marys from Hampshire & IOW FRS, and a support vehicle from Salisbury.

“Crews found a fire within a deep fat fryer, extraction unit and roof void of a three-storey building.  Four firefighters in breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using one main line, two hose reel jets and small tools and no casualties were reported.”