Fire damages optical venue

The Majestic hotel in Harrogate, a venue frequently used for optical industry events, has been severely damaged by a fire which broke out in the early hours of May 5.

More than 130 guests and 25 staff were led to safety from the listed Victorian building, although a body was discovered on the fifth floor. The fire was described by police as 'potentially suspicious'.

Fire officers told the BBC that the Majestic was likely to be out of action for some time. A large section of the hotel, including the ornate grand dining room, suffered significant water damage.

The fire, which is thought to have started in the staff quarters, spread to guest rooms on the fourth floor. Sixteen appliances and around 90 fire-fighters tackled the blaze. The Majestic hotel had been a popular venue for optical events including the Hospital Optometrists annual conference and the ABDO conference.