LONDON, ENGLAND.- After a fire broke out in a basement storeroom of the National Gallery, thousands of visitors had to be led to safety. Firefighters used a water hose to put out the fire. The fire began at around 1340 GMT in a storeroom that is being renovated. Around 25% of of the basement store was damaged. The Fire Brigade reported that no art work was damaged and no person was injured. There are fire investigators searching for the causes of the fire. 

In April 1824 the House of Commons agreed to pay £57,000 for the picture collection of the banker John Julius Angerstein. The 38 pictures were intended to form the core of a new national collection, for the enjoyment and education of all. Until a gallery building was constructed, the pictures were displayed at Angerstein’s house in Pall Mall. 

A Gallery for All - The National Gallery was established for the benefit of all. With a commitment to free admission, a central and accessible site, and extended opening hours the Gallery has ensured that its collection can be enjoyed by the widest public possible, and not become the exclusive preserve of the privileged. The Gallery continues to pursue a vigorous and socially inclusive outreach programme, and caters to the needs of all groups in society.