In Pictures: The Great Fire of Peterborough that saw John Lewis store destroyed

Among the buildings destroyed or badly damaged was the Robert Sayle store – where the inferno started – which was operating under the John Lewis Partnership, and the Peterborough Volunteer Fire Brigade head quarters. By then, the damage was catastrophic—not only was the Robert Sayle store destroyed, but neighbouring businesses were also severely affected. The fire effectively ended the brand's presence in the city until a new John Lewis store opened at Queensgate in 1982. The Great Fire of Peterborough Crews tackle the blaze Photo: Peterborough Volunteer Fire Brigade Photo Sales3 . Great Fire of Peterborough The Volunteer Fire Brigade played a key part in tackling the flames Photo: Peterborough Volunteer Fire Brigade Photo Sales