As reported by WV11.co.uk on our Facebook page, early on Saturday morning a  fire took hold in a row of shops on Lichfield Road, Wednesfield.
The fire which began at Silver & Co accountancy, based on the first storey of the shopping complex soon burnt through the ceiling into the Penguin Cafe below.
Cafe Owner Diana Jones told the Express & Star:
“We were in early and could smell something burning but didn’t think anything of it because sometimes they burn things around the back,†said the 67-year-old, who has run the cafe for eight years.
“The ceiling is completely ruined and I am waiting for the insurance to come out to find out the exact amount of damage.
“We have lost three freezers filled with prawns, burgers and bacon though and that is thousands alone.â€
Business affected by the fire include Elegant Frames, childrens’ shop Oh Baby and Portland Opticians, as well as several other firms in the block.
Jason Baso, who runs Elegant Frames told the Express & Star:
“We have had to throw away a few things like office chairs that have been smoke-damaged but I can assure all of the customers that all their precious pictures are safe,†he said.
“They were all locked away safely in cupboards and have not been touched at all. You can’t replace memories and a lot of people would be concerned about their pictures, but they are all safe.â€
Firefighters from Fallings Park and Walsall were called just after 7am on Saturday. There have been no reports of anyone being injured in the incident.
Police are now investigating and anyone with information should call Wednesfield Police Station on 0345 113 5000.
Read the full story at the Express & Star: Arson attack forces closure of precinct