In brief
At the end of a day of demonstrations that swept France, the venerable town hall of Limoges became the scene of a devastating fire. Video footage shows the building engulfed in flames, with its clock tower spire tumbling to the ground. Firefighters worked through the night to contain the blaze, but the future stability of the historic structure remains uncertain. Local residents expressed horror and described the arson as a selfish act against heritage amid anger at the government. BBC correspondent Chris Bockman reports from the fire‑affected site and updates listeners on ongoing investigations.
At the end of a day of demonstrations that swept France, the venerable 19th‑century town hall in Limoges became the scene of a devastating fire.
Video footage captured by reporters shows the historic building fully engulfed in flames, while the spire of its clock tower fell to the ground amid the blaze.
Firefighters battled the fire through the night and began a rigorous structural assessment the following morning. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the cathedral‑like façade faces collapse.
“Damaging heritage buildings because you’re angry with the government is selfish,” one stunned resident told BBC reporters.
BBC correspondent Chris Bockman is on the scene in Limoges, reporting live as investigators work to determine the cause of the fire and the potential impact on the landmark.