A SERIOUS fire in an alleyway on the Isle of Wight led to an emergency service response last night (Sunday).

UPDATE: The evacuated residents are still waiting to return home. 

Just before midnight, two fire crews from Ryde, and a single fire crew from Newport, were called to the scene on Ryde High Street.

They were responding to reports of a fire in an alleyway between Age Concern and Diamond Pet Supplies.

A video, shared with the County Press, shows a considerable blaze, with flames licking a gate between the two shops.

A spokesperson for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was caused by an electrical fault, and 12 people who fled from flats above are being supported by the Isle of Wight Council.

Two breathing apparatus and a single hose reel jet was used to bring the fire under control.

Video contributed by Lisa Bienhoff.