Fire forces evacuation of guests at Folkestone's Grand Burstin Hotel

A fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, Kent, forced the evacuation of guests after 26 fire engines responded to a basement blaze early Saturday morning. Thick smoke billowed from the seafront landmark as crews battled the flames. The fire broke out shortly before 1am, with witnesses reporting a loud bang and destroyed cars in the underground car park. Fifteen fire engines remain at the scene, and Kent Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the blaze started in the basement, though the cause is unknown. A welfare centre was set up at Three Hills Sports Park for displaced guests. Local residents were advised to keep doors and windows shut while crews worked to extinguish the fire. Police assisted with traffic control, and the council supported emergency services in their response to the incident.