Marple business Mr Chips suffered a devastating fire on Monday 24 April.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: "Just before 12.30pm on Monday (24 April), three fire engines from Offerton, Marple and Hyde fire station were called to reports of a building fire involving a takeaway on Derby Street, Marple.

 "Crews arrived quickly at scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatuses used two hose reels and a positive pressure ventilation unit to extinguish the fire.

"Firefighters were in attendance for over five hours ."

Residents were quick to voice their sympathy and support for owner Wayne, who was away on holiday when the incident took place. 

Soon after, a crowdfunding project was set up for the town centre restaurant.

The project has already garnered 108 supporters and raised over £2,000, more than four times the target amount of £500.

The fundraiser is hosted on JustGiving, with the page stating, "On Monday 24th April there was devastating fire at Mr Chips, Marple Town Centre. 

"Wayne, who owns the shop tirelessly makes sure he supports this community, providing support regularly to community groups or spreading his kindness to individuals offering free food when required. 

"Wayne has had a tough couple of years and this community would like him to know how much we think of him, and value his amazing business." 

Stockport Eats also issued the following statement on Monday: "We were devastated to hear of the fire at Mr Chips this afternoon. Wayne is such a wonderful man who has supported Stockport Eats in so many ways since our launch.

"With the support of such a wonderful Marple community and ourselves in any way that we can, we know he will get all of the help he needs to get through this."

Stockport Nub News have reached out to the organizer of the fundraiser for comment on the strength of response from Marple residents. . 

Those who wish to donate can do so here.

Image by Anthony Parkes, licensed under CC Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic.

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