Charity shop fire

MULTIPLE units from local fire brigades are at the scene of a fire behind the St Vincent de Paul charity shop in New Norfolk this morning.

The fire was reported at 6.16am, with multiple Tasmania Fire Service heavy tankers and heavy pumpers quickly turning out to the shop on the corner of Burnett and Leatham streets. Police and a local crew from Ambulance Tasmania also attended.

Facebook post by the Cheeky Little Place cafe, which was
not directly affected by the fire.

Attention was initially focused on the rear of the shop, accessed off Leatham St, where a gas cylinder and a donation bin appeared to be alight, according to an eyewitness.

Firefighters using breathing apparatus have since entered the shop, which has suffered previous attacks on its charity bin. The incident comes as "Vinnies" prepares to relocate to larger premises in High St.

The adjoining shop, Pauly's Pizza, has announced that due to smoke damage it will not be able to open today. In a Facebook post, owner Paul Belcher apologised for any inconvenience.

Nearby Cheeky Little Place is trading as usual today and posted a dramatic video of the fire on its Facebook page.

The Mercury newspaper's report can be seen here.

Thanks to the bystander who shared the photos below.

Smoke rising from behind the Vinnies shop after firefighters doused the flames.

The scene outside the Vinnies shop on Burnett St early this morning.