Owners of aquatics centre devastated by fire are still trading from their car park near Milton Keynes

Hobby Fish still has a lot of stock despite the blaze on bank holiday Monday (May 25) and is selling it from the car park from racks, tables and car boots.

Management at the shop on the A5 near Potterspury have this week thanked firefighters for their hard work and for the well-wishers from the public.

"We have been taken aback with the overwhelming response and kind words we have received since Monday when a fire devastated our store and family home above," a post on Hobby Fish's Facebook page read.

"For the last few days we have been working with the fire services and our insurers to determine the cause of the fire and the next step to take. During this time we appreciate all the support and well wishes."

One of the Hobby Fish owners was woken up by the fire at around 3.50am, which had started in a cold water tunnel at the back of the building.

Six crews from Northampton, Corby and Thames Valley fire stations stopped the fire from spreading and worked with the owners to save 'as many animals as possible' from the aquatics centre and neighbouring reptile store, Wrigglies.

"We were blown away by the fire services reaction, dedication and compassion they showed during this very difficult time," the post continues.

"The focus throughout was on the livestock saving as many as possible under the incredibly difficult circumstances.

"We are unable to enter the building yet safely. Electricity and water has been cut to the site at present but we have set up on site to keep what’s left secure."

The koi and cold water fish from Hobby Fish have been relocated to friends and fellow fish shops while a large shipment of koi due later in the day was redirected to other shops. All of the reptiles from Wrigglies were taken to its other shops.

The owners say they are now focusing on 'getting going again' so they have temporary buildings set up to sell remaining stock, with plenty available.

"If you can’t see something please ask, we may have it. If we don’t we can normally have it delivered," the post adds.