Cold hampers church fire fighting efforts

(Updated) Hamilton fire crews are on the scene of a stubborn fire at Christ’s Voice of Restoration Ministries on Sanford Ave N in Hamilton.

Six people were inside praying when they smelled smoke. Firefighters were called around 12:30 this afternoon, with 14 units responding to the blaze.

Officials believe the fire started in the boiler room, and is spreading inside the walls. The structure has been there since the 1870s.

The cold is affecting both the equipment and the crews. Firefighters are working in shifts; when they’re not on, they are making use of a warming tent set up.

Traffic is being rerouted around the scene at Barton and Sanford. Barton is closed from Wellington to Westinghouse, while Sanford is closed at Cannon Street.

The church holds services three times a week and also houses a food bank, a clothing bank and a soup kitchen.

Video: Lisa Hepfner talks to Hamilton Fire official Claudio Mostacci and Pastor Tom Tirivamgami