Emergency services are currently responding to a significant fire at a shop adjacent to the Palace Theatre in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. The blaze has resulted in at least one injury, with the affected individual being transported away on a stretcher. Firefighters have closed London Road in both directions as they work to control the situation.

Thick black smoke has been observed billowing into the sky, prompting a swift response from multiple fire crews. Images circulating on social media depict the smoke rising from the vicinity of Dixon Studio, which is part of the theatre complex. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, have been seen on the roof of the studio as they tackle the flames.

Witnesses have described the scene, including a woman who had just left a performance at the Palace Theatre. She recounted her surprise at the sight of smoke, stating on Facebook, "Just finished watching a show with the boys and my mum at the palace theatre… came out the show… was buying the boys a souvenir… mum said she could smell smoke, I looked up and said yeah cos the building's on fire!!"

The fire appears to have originated from a shop located next to the theatre, which is partially occupied by a kebab shop. Emergency services remain on the scene, working diligently to extinguish the fire and ensure public safety.