PLANS are underway to source a temporary location for the footwear business destroyed in a ‘devastating’ fire in Newtownards on Friday.
The directors for Cordners have confirmed that they have hopes of continuing trading in Newtownards after their iconic premises on Conway Square went up in flames on Friday morning. However, they have pledged to emerge from the tragedy ‘stronger than ever before’.
Thankfully the fire, believed to be accidental, was quickly brought under control, however neighbouring cafe Cafolla’s and Anderson’s Pharmacy have been unable to reopen due to the damage caused by the fire.
Firefighters attended the fire at the building at around 6.30am on Friday, with approximately 48 firefighters tackling the blaze at the height of the incident, along with seven officers and seven fire appliances, an aerial appliance and the Command Support Unit from Lisburn Fire Station.
Andy Burns, Group Commander fior the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used six jets to extinguish the fire.
“Due to the tireless efforts of our firefighters, the fire was brought under control which prevented the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties,” he said.
In a statement issued later on Friday, David and Janice Robsinson, the directors of Cordner’s, said they were ‘heartbroken’ by the outbreak of the fire at their Newtownards store, adding that it was affecting their ability to fulfil orders.
They expressed their ‘heartfelt gratitude’ to the Fire and Rescue Service for their work in controlling the flames and thanked customers and friends for their support ‘during this challenging time’.
“From the bottom of our hearts, we want to express our sincerest appreciation to each and every one of you who took the time to reach out to us with messages of support and encouragement. Your words have brought us immense comfort during this difficult period,” the pair said.
“The stories you have shared about your own shopping experience with us over the years and cherished memories of Cordner’s shoe shop and the former Stewarts shoe shop, have warmed our hearts.
“We truly value and appreciate the traditions that have carried on through generations.”
Local businesses in the town received high praise from the affected business owners, as they banded together to lend support in any way they could offer.
The Cordner’s directors paid thanks to the local tradesmen for their ‘kindness and support’ in their hour of need.
Cornder’s will continue to trade at their Ballymoney based store and online, however have apologised for any inconveniences caused.
“Together, we will overcome this challenge and emerge stronger than ever before,” the directors concluded.
