Borg Hardware Store has appealed for public support after its premises in Gżira were completely destroyed by a major fire.
The business, which has served customers for around 37 years, said in a Facebook post that nothing was left following the blaze and that the damage was extensive.
The fire broke out at around 2.30pm on Wednesday at the ironmongery on Sir Patrick Stuart Street. It affected both the ground-floor retail area and the basement storage facility.
Firefighters Battle Blaze for 18 Hours
More than 55 firefighters from six stations were deployed to the scene.
A total of 15 fire engines were used during the operation, including an aerial ladder and a foam tender.
Firefighters used approximately 175,000 litres of water and 10,000 litres of firefighting foam to bring the fire under control.
The operation took around 18 hours and was described as particularly challenging because of the wide range of materials stored inside the premises.
Residents Evacuated and Animals Rescued
Residents living on the same street were asked to temporarily leave their homes as a precaution while emergency crews worked to contain the blaze.
Several cats and other animals were rescued from the property.
Police officers from the 7th District attended the scene, while a medical team from Mater Dei Hospital’s Emergency Department was also present as a precaution.
No injuries were reported.
Store Thanks Emergency Services
In its public message, Borg Hardware Store expressed its gratitude to the Civil Protection Department, Mater Dei Hospital teams and the Police officers involved in the emergency response.
The store praised the professionalism and courage shown by all those who attended the scene, adding that there were not enough words to thank them for their work.
Appeal for Financial and Practical Support
Following the destruction of the shop, the owners are asking for help in any form.
This may include financial assistance or practical services that could support the business as it deals with the aftermath of the fire.
Anyone wishing to offer support can contact Borg Hardware Store on:
9946 5634
7995 5999
After serving the local community for almost four decades, the business now faces a difficult period of recovery.
