Kitchen fire forces KFC to close its restaurant at Preston Docks

Customers and staff were evacuated from KFC in Port Way after a cooking range caught fire at around 8.15pm on Tuesday, March 26.

Four fire engines tackled the blaze and crews had to use oxygen masks to enter the smoke-filled diner restaurant.

A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Four fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge and Penwortham were called to a commercial fire on Port Way, Preston.

"When firefighters arrived at the scene they found a fire involving a cooking range and the property was moderately smoke logged.

"They used four breathing apparatus and one hose reel to extinguish the fire."

No injuries were reported.

Staff at the fried chicken chain said the outlet will not be open this morning, but could not confirm whether the restaurant will open later today.

The member of staff said the restaurant is waiting for safety checks to be completed before it reopens to the public.

KFC's press office have been approached for comment.

What about my Bargain Bucket?

Don't panic. There are a number of KFC restaurants in the Preston area - including the first ever to open in the UK - just a five-minute drive from the Docks.

- Fishergate, Preston

- Deepdale Retail Park, Blackpool Road

- Lostock Hall, Leyland Road