A POPULAR Indian restaurant and takeaway in Bingley has “completely burnt out” in a serious fire.

Firefighters were called out to Cardamon Restaurant at 3.48am on Tuesday (August 2).

Main Street, one of the town’s key routes, was closed off as fire crews tackled the blaze.

The glass front door had smashed completely while menus could be seen amongst burnt furniture, debris, and soot-filled bottles outside.

One local said: "Just walked past and looks to have been completely burnt out. Door smashed, pile of burnt stuff and police outside. What a shame.

"I walked by around 6.30am and could see a police car and burnt material outside the restaurant.

"There was a distinct burning smell and the front door was completely smashed. The sign from the restaurant was also propped up to the side.”

Enquiries into the cause of the fire are ongoing, West Yorkshire Police said.

In a statement, a police spokesperson said: "Police were called to Main Street, Bingley by the fire service at about 4.14am to a report of a fire at a restaurant there.

"Enquiries remain ongoing."

The community has rallied round the Cardamon Restaurant, including one customer who described it as the "best curry house ever".

Councillor Geoff Winnard (Conservative, Bingley) said: “It’s very disappointing to find out the Cardamon has been affected by the fire.

“I hope that this doesn’t mean the end of the Cardamon in Bingley. It would be a loss to the town centre.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Firefighters were called out to Cardamon Restaurant on Main Street. Picture: T&AFirefighters were called out to Cardamon Restaurant on Main Street. Picture: T&A

“When I went a few weeks ago the restaurant was really quite full. I think everybody, for the health of our high street in Bingley, we want a vibrant Main Street with lots of different places and the Cardamon restaurant is a very important part of the scene.”

Councillor Joe Wheatley (Labour, Bingley) said: “I’m a regular patron.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Debris outside the restaurantDebris outside the restaurant

“The Cardamon has been an absolute go to place to the people of Bingley for many years and this is a very serious and unfortunate incident.

“Any support the owners of the Cardamon need as a district councillor I’m happy to support them.”

Amanda Hatherley said: "This is one of my favourite places, the guys who work here are amazing.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The aftermath of the fire The aftermath of the fire

Another customer Joanna Arnold said: "Absolutely devastated for them but hope they are open again soon. Best curry house ever with amazing food and phenomenal service."

Adam Lee said: "Such friendly staff, always went above and beyond."

The restaurant was approached for comment. 

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