Blaze threatens historic records at College of Arms - News - Evening Standard
       

Blaze threatens historic records at College of Arms

Heraldry records of Britain's most eminent families were today under threat after a fire broke out at the 17th-century building storing them.

About 40 firefighters tackled the blaze within three hours at the Royal College of Arms, near St Paul's Cathedral. The College, founded by Richard III in 1484, grants titles and coats of arms to peers. London Fire Brigade said 20 per cent of the third floor and 10 per cent of the fourth floor had been damaged by the blaze, which began at 11am. No one was hurt and the cause was not yet known.

A spokeswoman added: "Crews have been working with the College curator to try to preserve the historical manuscripts."

An investigation is under way.

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