By MARK BAKER

A Launceston hostel owner has praised the actions of his staff after a fire forced 78 backpackers to evacuate a Brisbane St building early yesterday.

Metro Backpackers Lodge owner John Baily said night manager Tony McEnnan had handled the 3am evacuation very well when a fire sent smoke through the hostel.

"It could have been quite nasty if the fire had got out of control, as we are pretty near full capacity at this time of year," Mr Baily said.

Hostel staff praised after fire drama continued