THE owners of a Chinese restaurant in which a major fire broke out have thanked the local community for their bravery.

K. Yeun Chinese takeaway on East Street caught fire on Monday afternoon, prompting 40 firefighters from across the region to battle the blaze for around seven hours.

In a statement released by the owners they have thanked all those in the town who helped and praised firefighters for their bravery.

Smoke was seen billowing out of the restaurant across East Street and up Barracks Lane as a fire that started accidently on the ground floor escalated through to the roof of the three storey building.

READ: Fire at takeaway on East Street in Bridport 'accidental'

Everyone was safely evacuated from the restaurant and the surrounding area with three people taken to hospital with smoke inhalation. 

East Street was closed from the Esso roundabout to the junction of South Street while the fire was put out and was not reopened until around 11pm.

Police road block at the junction with South StreetPolice road block at the junction with South Street (Image: Andy Jones)

As well as firefighters, local residents and business owners leapt into action to help the owners as the fire raged. 

The statement from the takeaway owners said: "We are deeply grateful for the tremendous support we received and continue to receive during yesterday’s building fire.

READ: Firefighters called to fire in East Street in Bridport

"We want to thank the firefighters for their bravery and hard work in bringing the fire under control.

"We are utmost grateful to individuals, in particular, Pete Butler, Clive, Shaun, Edward and Jason who assisted at the immediate scene.

"We also want to extend our sincere appreciation to Olive Tree and Lord Nelson Hotel for their generosity and assistance yesterday.

"Thank you everyone for their generosity. We have insurance in place. It will take awhile, but we will reopen once all is repaired."