Huge blaze at Broadmoor Hospital holding some of UK’s most dangerous criminals

A massive fire has broken out at psychiatric hospital Broadmoor, which is home to some of the UK’s most dangerous criminals.

Flames and big plumes of smoke can be seen comingout of the high-security hospital in Crownthorne, Berkshire.

Broadmoor has held several high-profile individuals including Charles Bronson, the Yorkshire Ripper, Peter Sutcliffe and Ronnie Kray.

It currently holds Ian Ball – who tried to kidnap Princess Anne in 1974 – and Michael Adebowale – one of the men who killed soldier Lee Rigby in London in 2013.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze was at one of the old Victorian residential blocks, which are not used for prisoners anymore.

New Broadmoor Hospital, which sits next to the older buildings, opened in 2019, after it was decided the Victorian structures were no longer fit for purpose.

A fire service spokesperson said: ‘At 9.37am on Saturday, 25 May we received reports of a fire at a derelict building at the old Broadmoor Hospital site on Chaplains Hill, Crowthorne.

Fire and smoke, which appears to be coming out of one of the Victorian buildings at Broadmoor

‘The fire is not located at the current hospital site and there is no risk to patients and staff.’

The spokesperson said several crews were sent to the scene.

‘Upon arrival, firefighters found a well-developed fire in the old building at the old Broadmoor Hospital site.

‘There are no injuries reported at this time and all persons are accounted for.

‘Crews are likely to remain on scene for some time while they deal with this incident.’

The high security facility holds criminals such as Ian Ball, who tried to kidnap Princess Anne in the 70s

‘Please stay clear of the area while emergency services deal with this incident and if you are in the area, please keep windows and doors closed at this time.’

All patients held at Broadmoor are detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.

Many people assume the facility is a prison, but it is classed as a hospital and staff include psychologists, social workers, nurses and therapists.

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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