A SPOKESMAN for the Archdiocese of Glasgow has said a fire at St Simon’s church is a "heavy blow" to people in the city.
Footage posted online at St Simon's Church in Partick's Bridge Street show the historic building up in flames.
The alarm was raised at 2.40am with emergency services still in attendance.
READ MORE: Historic church 'gutted' by large fire with nearby homes evacuated
The Archdiocese of Glasgow spokesman said: “The destruction of St Simon’s church by fire will be a blow to people far beyond the west end of Glasgow.
“Though small in size, St Simon’s was well-frequented and was the spiritual home of the Polish community in the west of Scotland who had established a shrine there.
“It was also a focal point for the local community, and especially the homeless who benefited from a cafe on site which had to be suspended during the pandemic.
“The church of St Simon’s is linked to the larger parish of St Peter’s in Partick and worshippers will be accommodated there.
“The cause of the blaze is not immediately apparent, but we will work with the Fire Service as they investigate the site.
“St Simon’s was a much-loved landmark at Partick Cross and its loss is a heavy blow.”
READ MORE: Historic Glasgow church roof collapses during large fire
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
A local resident told our sister title, the Glasgow Times, that the roof collapsed at around 3.30am.
He added: "Church owner/tender who lived in the adjoining house was evacuated with no injuries.
"House now under siege from the fire. No casualties known at present."
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