Residents being evacuated from Moorehall Lodge during the fire in neighbouring Finlays of Ardee. Photo: Seamus Farrelly.

Update: Body recovered following Ardee fire

A body is reported to have been recovered this morning following the dreadful fire at Finlay's of Ardee last night. A search had been underway when a man had not been seen since the outbreak of the blaze. 

 

A 30-year-old man is missing following a fire at a coffin factory in Ardee earlier today.

The Lithuanian national has not been seen since the fire started at around 5 pm. It is believed that the missing man was in a workshop when the fire broke out.

The gardai said that they believe the fire was accidental. A search of the premises will take place once it is deemed safe by the fire service to do so.

 

Meanwhile, nearby Moorehall Lodge Nursing Home Residence has issued a statement saying that residents were evacuated as a precaution, due to the fire.

“Our emergency evacuation plan was activated in a calm and successful manner on a purely precautionary basis and residents were moved to another part of the Moorehall Lodge complex,” said Moorehall chief executive Sean McCoy.

“We were delighted with the response of our staff, and as part of our emergency plan, off-duty staff members also responded.

“Moorehall Lodge is at the heart of the community and we would like to thank our neighbours, friends and residents’ families who also offered assistance.

“Our residents returned to their households within a short period of time.

“Our thought and prayers are with Coleman Finlay and their staff at this very difficult and traumatic time,' he concluded.