71 Fires & 17 Near Misses in
Heritage Building Fires added to the 2020 Database
in August & September.
(A Fire is defined as an uncontrolled and unwanted burning event (including explosion) causing damage to a heritage building and/or contents by at least one of the following: flame, heat, smoke or blast)
(A Near Miss is defined as an event in a heritage building that had the potential to start a fire, or a fire adjacent to a heritage building that, without intervention, could have spread to that building)
* on the incident time indicates only the approximate time of the incident is known
Heritage Building Fires added to the 2020 Database
in August & September.
(A Fire is defined as an uncontrolled and unwanted burning event (including explosion) causing damage to a heritage building and/or contents by at least one of the following: flame, heat, smoke or blast)
(A Near Miss is defined as an event in a heritage building that had the potential to start a fire, or a fire adjacent to a heritage building that, without intervention, could have spread to that building)
* on the incident time indicates only the approximate time of the incident is known
Fires Index < Click here
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“Shame on those who remain unmoved, whose pace fails to quicken, on entering one of these old habitations, a manor-house falling to wrack and ruin or a desecrated church!”
Petrus Borel, (1809 – 1859), French writer of the Romantic Period
Petrus Borel, (1809 – 1859), French writer of the Romantic Period
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Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
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Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
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August - 33 Fires & 8 Near Misses
31 August 2020 (22:00*) - Fire crews called to blaze at Albert Arms in South East London
Twenty Fire fighters have been called to tackle a fire that has broken out at the Albert Arms in South East London Four fire appliances from Lambeth, Old Kent Road, Dockhead have all been called to Gladstone Street in Southwark on Monday evening just after 10pm. Crews are using two hose reel and a jet in attempts to stop the fire from spreading through building.
The Pub and building fell victim to another fire on Good Friday, the 14th April 2017 which saw the business closed for over three months. 35 firefighters tackled that blaze which broke out around 4am. Part of the ground floor and basement were damaged by fire.The fire is believed to have been caused by an oven.
The Albert Arms dates back to at least 1851, where Richard W Pyne was Licensed Victualler (see press cutting below). The pub had two bars, named the Victoria and the Albert.
News Source: UKNIP24
The Pub and building fell victim to another fire on Good Friday, the 14th April 2017 which saw the business closed for over three months. 35 firefighters tackled that blaze which broke out around 4am. Part of the ground floor and basement were damaged by fire.The fire is believed to have been caused by an oven.
The Albert Arms dates back to at least 1851, where Richard W Pyne was Licensed Victualler (see press cutting below). The pub had two bars, named the Victoria and the Albert.
News Source: UKNIP24
31 August 2020 (04:30*) - Residents advised to keep windows closed due to major fire in Bishop Auckland
People are being advised to keep their windows closed to large amounts of smoke and possible hazardous materials from a large fire. Emergency services are currently dealing with ‘large incident’ in the Eldon area of Bishop Auckland. It is understood around 5,000 tonnes of compressed waste is alight at the old Eldon brickworks site.
A spokesman for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently dealing with a large incident in the Eldon Area of Bishop Auckland. There are seven appliances, an aerial ladder platform, a bulk water tanker and a number of senior officers in attendance. Members of the public in the vicinity are advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to large amounts of smoke and possible hazardous materials being involved.”
The site is located just north of Main Road at the eastern edge of the village but the smoke can be seen from miles around the area. Bishop Auckland resident Kevin Longstaff said: "I live in Bishop, which is two miles from there and I could see it. I could hear the popping noise even from here. You can smell the smoke."
Group incident commander Graeme Metcalf warned residents firefighters would be on the scene for a number of days. “We are working with our colleagues and the Environmental Agency, and one of our concerns is the pollution as a result of our fire fighting activity because the waste is essentially unidentified at this point in time. We are using a controlled burn for this incident so what we are doing is limiting the amount of water we are putting on to limit the pollution that goes up in the plume." Crews are also working with the operators on site to pull the waste apart into smaller batches so it will burn out quicker.
Mr Metcalf added: “We are using limited water to try and protect the surrounding area. I think due to the approach we are taking unfortunately there will be some impact over the next three to four days at the very least, potentially up to five or six days. We are essentially going to operate mainly in the day time and still have crews here in the evening - a 24 hour presence for around three or four days - but we will scale down operations in the hours of darkness for safety reasons.” Mr Metcalf said the cause of the fire was still unknown but an investigation would take place in due course. Claire Jefferson, 52, who lives next door to the site, said: "My husband got up at 5am because he saw the blue lights. A police car was outside and fire engines started coming at the early hours. There were flames coming out the top and a plume of smoke. You don't know what's in it, it could have been gas bottled or anything.There have been at least eight engines in and out all morning."
It has emerged that the recycling plant was issued with an enforcement notice weeks before the fire broke out. Durham County Council ordered work to Old Eldon Brickworks, in Bishop Auckland, due to the unauthorised use of the land for the storage and importing of waste.The notice, which can been seen at the site, was issued on August 3 and work was to stop on August 6 this year. It reads: “The council considers it expedient to issue this notice because the unauthorised importation and external control, uncontrolled storage mixed waste is causing an adverse impact upon the amenity of nearby residents and the local environment conflict with saved County Durham Waste Local Plan Policies.”
Durham County Council granted planning permission for a waste management centre on the site in July 2016, with £4.5 million invested in the plant by the Viridis Group. The site is now managed by Falcons Management Ltd, which is based in Stockton-on-Tees. The company states on its website that it was set up in March 2019 with the purpose of focusing on the restoration of former quarries and brownfield sites as well as mineral extraction and material recycling processes. It states the company purchased a large multipurpose site at the Eldon Resource Recovery Centre in with the intention to extract remaining minerals, restoring the site and bringing back into use the material recycling operations. Stuart Timmiss, head of housing and development at Durham County Council, said: “We can confirm that an Enforcement Notice had been issued in respect to the unauthorised use of the land for the storage and importing of waste. We are liaising with other relevant agencies in response to the fire that broke out on Monday and we are assisting them with any further recovery of the site.”
Bricks have been made on this site since 1877 when it was a colliery brickworks and part of the South Durham Colliery complex. Eldon Brick Company was formed in 1933 on the closure of Eldon Colliery. The brickworks closed in 2012 and in recent years the site has been used for waste management and recycling.
News Source: The Northern Echo
A spokesman for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently dealing with a large incident in the Eldon Area of Bishop Auckland. There are seven appliances, an aerial ladder platform, a bulk water tanker and a number of senior officers in attendance. Members of the public in the vicinity are advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to large amounts of smoke and possible hazardous materials being involved.”
The site is located just north of Main Road at the eastern edge of the village but the smoke can be seen from miles around the area. Bishop Auckland resident Kevin Longstaff said: "I live in Bishop, which is two miles from there and I could see it. I could hear the popping noise even from here. You can smell the smoke."
Group incident commander Graeme Metcalf warned residents firefighters would be on the scene for a number of days. “We are working with our colleagues and the Environmental Agency, and one of our concerns is the pollution as a result of our fire fighting activity because the waste is essentially unidentified at this point in time. We are using a controlled burn for this incident so what we are doing is limiting the amount of water we are putting on to limit the pollution that goes up in the plume." Crews are also working with the operators on site to pull the waste apart into smaller batches so it will burn out quicker.
Mr Metcalf added: “We are using limited water to try and protect the surrounding area. I think due to the approach we are taking unfortunately there will be some impact over the next three to four days at the very least, potentially up to five or six days. We are essentially going to operate mainly in the day time and still have crews here in the evening - a 24 hour presence for around three or four days - but we will scale down operations in the hours of darkness for safety reasons.” Mr Metcalf said the cause of the fire was still unknown but an investigation would take place in due course. Claire Jefferson, 52, who lives next door to the site, said: "My husband got up at 5am because he saw the blue lights. A police car was outside and fire engines started coming at the early hours. There were flames coming out the top and a plume of smoke. You don't know what's in it, it could have been gas bottled or anything.There have been at least eight engines in and out all morning."
It has emerged that the recycling plant was issued with an enforcement notice weeks before the fire broke out. Durham County Council ordered work to Old Eldon Brickworks, in Bishop Auckland, due to the unauthorised use of the land for the storage and importing of waste.The notice, which can been seen at the site, was issued on August 3 and work was to stop on August 6 this year. It reads: “The council considers it expedient to issue this notice because the unauthorised importation and external control, uncontrolled storage mixed waste is causing an adverse impact upon the amenity of nearby residents and the local environment conflict with saved County Durham Waste Local Plan Policies.”
Durham County Council granted planning permission for a waste management centre on the site in July 2016, with £4.5 million invested in the plant by the Viridis Group. The site is now managed by Falcons Management Ltd, which is based in Stockton-on-Tees. The company states on its website that it was set up in March 2019 with the purpose of focusing on the restoration of former quarries and brownfield sites as well as mineral extraction and material recycling processes. It states the company purchased a large multipurpose site at the Eldon Resource Recovery Centre in with the intention to extract remaining minerals, restoring the site and bringing back into use the material recycling operations. Stuart Timmiss, head of housing and development at Durham County Council, said: “We can confirm that an Enforcement Notice had been issued in respect to the unauthorised use of the land for the storage and importing of waste. We are liaising with other relevant agencies in response to the fire that broke out on Monday and we are assisting them with any further recovery of the site.”
Bricks have been made on this site since 1877 when it was a colliery brickworks and part of the South Durham Colliery complex. Eldon Brick Company was formed in 1933 on the closure of Eldon Colliery. The brickworks closed in 2012 and in recent years the site has been used for waste management and recycling.
News Source: The Northern Echo
29 August 2020 (04:15) - Cornwall crews battle fire at Pengegon Institute Community Hall
An update has been given into a serious fire in Camborne this morning that saw crews from eight fire stations battling flames for five and a half hours. Critical Control Centre first received a 999 call at 4.15am today reporting smoke coming from the roof of a community building in Lower Pengegon. It was originally described by the fire service as a residential building, but has now been updated.
Two crews were initially sent from Tolvaddon Fire Station along with a group manager from Penzance. Almost immediately they called for back up, which came from Falmouth and Perranporth fire stations, as well as an additional station manager from Bodmin, an incident command unit from St Just and an operational support unit from Falmouth. At this point Network Rail was warned of the incident due to the proximity of the Cornish main line to the fire, but there was no disruption to trains because of this incident. At 4.55am a further two crews were sent from Truro and Helston, with an aerial ladder platform called for just before 5.20am.
A spokesperson for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service has now said: "In summary, there was a significant fire on the first floor. Four breathing apparatus wearers were committed for internal firefighting, however this was hindered by the intense heat inside. Multiple hose reel jets were used to attack the fire externally through windows. The fire was extinguished by 9:49am. The cause was accidental and the fire spread from the point of origin." Group Manager Mark Salter, Station Manager Rich Gibbons and Cornwall's Chief Fire Officer Mark Hewitt were the officers involved in the incident.
The Pengegon Institute Community Hall has historical and heritage significance as it was a former mining support building for Wheal Harriet, built in 1860.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Two crews were initially sent from Tolvaddon Fire Station along with a group manager from Penzance. Almost immediately they called for back up, which came from Falmouth and Perranporth fire stations, as well as an additional station manager from Bodmin, an incident command unit from St Just and an operational support unit from Falmouth. At this point Network Rail was warned of the incident due to the proximity of the Cornish main line to the fire, but there was no disruption to trains because of this incident. At 4.55am a further two crews were sent from Truro and Helston, with an aerial ladder platform called for just before 5.20am.
A spokesperson for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service has now said: "In summary, there was a significant fire on the first floor. Four breathing apparatus wearers were committed for internal firefighting, however this was hindered by the intense heat inside. Multiple hose reel jets were used to attack the fire externally through windows. The fire was extinguished by 9:49am. The cause was accidental and the fire spread from the point of origin." Group Manager Mark Salter, Station Manager Rich Gibbons and Cornwall's Chief Fire Officer Mark Hewitt were the officers involved in the incident.
The Pengegon Institute Community Hall has historical and heritage significance as it was a former mining support building for Wheal Harriet, built in 1860.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
Wheal Harriet was built in 1860 and was part of the Dolcoath mine complex and followed a lode of tin which ran towards the town almost parallel with the railway line. The remains of the pumping engine house still stand behind the Institute building today. The building was initially used as a machine shop, probably housing compressors and boilers whilst the upper floor was used as a first aid post and hospital. The mine closed in 1921, during the demise of the Cornish tin mining industry, and it was converted to stores and offices. The building was owned by the Bassett Estate until 1936 when a group of businessmen and people from Pengegon bought the building and converted the upper floor to a Men's Institute and the ground floor was converted to a community hall.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
Wheal Harriet was built in 1860 and was part of the Dolcoath mine complex and followed a lode of tin which ran towards the town almost parallel with the railway line. The remains of the pumping engine house still stand behind the Institute building today. The building was initially used as a machine shop, probably housing compressors and boilers whilst the upper floor was used as a first aid post and hospital. The mine closed in 1921, during the demise of the Cornish tin mining industry, and it was converted to stores and offices. The building was owned by the Bassett Estate until 1936 when a group of businessmen and people from Pengegon bought the building and converted the upper floor to a Men's Institute and the ground floor was converted to a community hall.
26 August 2020 (11:51) - Small fire at well known Hoole pub
A well known Chester pub was late opening after a small fire involving a deep fat fryer in the kitchen. The Bromfield Arms in Faulkner Street, Hoole, was affected by light smoke damage due to the chip pan fire that happened on Wednesday morning (August 26). Fire engines from Chester and Powey Lane were called at 11.51am with the first appliance arriving within four minutes. Fortunately, the blaze was out on arrival with locals claiming firefighters did not even deploy a hosereel. There were no reported injuries.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said their crews left the scene about 12.20pm after completing safety checks. Regulars were left outside waiting for the pub to open which was delayed from its usual noon start time. The pub has since opened.
The Bromfield Arms is first mentioned in a licence transfer in 1864. The earliest innkeeper recorded in 1867 was Thomas Balshaw who had opened one of Hoole's first shops in Peploe Street - this shop later became Lewis's Ice Cream shop. A keystone over the door on the Walker Street corner shows that in 1900 the Bromfield doubled in size following the demolition of two adjoining cottages Nos.45 and 47. The Northgate Brewery were then the owners.
News Source: Cheshire Live
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said their crews left the scene about 12.20pm after completing safety checks. Regulars were left outside waiting for the pub to open which was delayed from its usual noon start time. The pub has since opened.
The Bromfield Arms is first mentioned in a licence transfer in 1864. The earliest innkeeper recorded in 1867 was Thomas Balshaw who had opened one of Hoole's first shops in Peploe Street - this shop later became Lewis's Ice Cream shop. A keystone over the door on the Walker Street corner shows that in 1900 the Bromfield doubled in size following the demolition of two adjoining cottages Nos.45 and 47. The Northgate Brewery were then the owners.
News Source: Cheshire Live
24 August 2020 (18:41) - Firefighters rescue two people from Rhyl flat fire
Two people were rescued from a flat fire in Rhyl tonight. Firefighters were called to the blaze at the property on West Parade at around 6.40pm. A man and woman were reported to be trapped in a top floor flat and crews entered the building wearing breathing apparatus.The pair were led to safety by firefighters and were not hurt. A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "We were called to reports of a flat fire at 6.41pm. Two crews from Abergele and Rhyl attended the scene. There were reports of persons trapped on the top floor and our crews led the man and woman to safety."
The blaze has now been extinguished and is believed to have been an electrical fire. A fire investigation is set to take place to establish the cause. Police were also called to the scene and helped direct traffic. A North Wales Police spokesman said: "We received a call at 6.46pm from colleagues at NWFRS, requesting assistance with traffic management whilst they dealt with an incident in the West Parade area of Rhyl. The incident concluded at around 8.30pm."
The terraced rows on West Parade were built around 1880-90.
News Source: Daily Post / Northwaleslive
The blaze has now been extinguished and is believed to have been an electrical fire. A fire investigation is set to take place to establish the cause. Police were also called to the scene and helped direct traffic. A North Wales Police spokesman said: "We received a call at 6.46pm from colleagues at NWFRS, requesting assistance with traffic management whilst they dealt with an incident in the West Parade area of Rhyl. The incident concluded at around 8.30pm."
The terraced rows on West Parade were built around 1880-90.
News Source: Daily Post / Northwaleslive
Near Miss
24 August 2020 (13:00*) - Cornwall hotel Tregenna Castle fire of garden heater in grounds
24 August 2020 (13:00*) - Cornwall hotel Tregenna Castle fire of garden heater in grounds
Fire crews were called to a Cornish hotel this lunchtime after a fire broke out. A crew from St Ives Fire Station was sent to Tregenna Castle at Carbis Bay at around 1pm, closely followed by back up from Hayle and Truro fire stations, with further support from Penzance. A spokesperson for St Ives fire service said: "All pumps were sent to a fire at a local hotel. On arrival crews found a gas garden heater had been on fire and put out by a member of staff. Crews gave advice before returning to home station."
Tregenna Castle, in St Ives, Cornwall, was built by Samuel Stephens in the 18th century and is named after the hill on which it stands. The estate was sold in 1871 and became a hotel, a purpose for which it is still used today. The castle is a Grade II listed building.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Tregenna Castle, in St Ives, Cornwall, was built by Samuel Stephens in the 18th century and is named after the hill on which it stands. The estate was sold in 1871 and became a hotel, a purpose for which it is still used today. The castle is a Grade II listed building.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Entry Name: Tregenna Castle Hotel
Listing Date: 4 June 1952 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1327765 English Heritage Legacy ID: 68913 Location: St. Ives, Cornwall, TR26 County: Cornwall Civil Parish: St. Ives Built-Up Area: St Ives Traditional County: Cornwall Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cornwall Church of England Parish: St Ives Church of England Diocese: Truro |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.2046 / 50°12'16"N Longitude: -5.478 / 5°28'40"W OS Eastings: 151915 OS Northings: 39633 OS Grid: SW519396 Mapcode National: GBR DXV4.HK6 Mapcode Global: VH12M.03BZ Plus Code: 9C2P6G3C+RQ |
Near Miss
22 August 2020 (20:20) - Stowmarket explosion: Two hurt in train station burger van blast
22 August 2020 (20:20) - Stowmarket explosion: Two hurt in train station burger van blast
Two people were injured yesterday when a disused burger stall exploded outside a railways station. The blast is believed to have been caused by a leaking gas cylinder in the catering cabin next to the station in Stowmarket, Suffolk. One person was taken to hospital by ambulance and another was treated at the scene by paramedics. Suffolk Police said that none of the injuries were thought to be serious.
The area outside the stall operating behind the closed King's Arms pub was left showered with broken glass after the explosion at around 8.20pm. The blast led to the evacuation of the station and nearby buildings as firefighters and police were scrambled to the scene. Trains were also temporarily prevented from stopping at the station. The blast blew out windows and doors on the stall and caused its flat roof to balloon outwards.
One witness said: “The place had not been open for a few months. There was a huge bang, but there was no flames or fire. I guess that some gas cylinders had been left there and must have leaked. The guys could have been working on it preparing to reopen.” Another woman said her house had been 'rocked' by the blast. A Suffolk Police statement said: “Stowmarket train station has now reopened following an incident in Station Road in the town. Police were called to reports of an explosion at 8.20pm. Firefighters and paramedics were also in attendance. At least one person is believed to have suffered injuries, however these are no longer believed to be serious. A police and fire cordon remains in place. The train station has now reopened and trains are running. Please check National Rail to see if train times are affected.”
A spokesperson for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “I can confirm that East of England Ambulance Service responded to an emergency call shortly before 8.30pm regarding an incident in Stowmarket. An ambulance and two rapid response vehicles attended the scene. Two patients were treated for minor injuries. One of the patients was transported to Ipswich Hospital for further care.”
The station was opened by the Ipswich & Bury Railway in 1846 with red brick main buildings in a flamboyant Jacobean manner by Frederick Barnes. The buildings were Grade II listed in 1972.
The Kings Arms pub also dates from the same period. It opened soon after an earlier pub of same name closed in Ipswich Street in 1857. This pub was owned by Cobbold's throughout its early history, and subsequently closed on May 6th, 1958. This pub then re-opened at the beginning of December 2009 after a 51 year closure. The name by which The Kings Arms came to be unofficially known was "The Two Sisters" derived from Mabel Harriet Southgate and Jessie Hilda Taylor nee Beaumont who ran the place in the first half of 20th century till it closed in 1958.
Both the Station and the Pub lie within the Stowmarket Conservation Area.
News Source: Daily Mail
The area outside the stall operating behind the closed King's Arms pub was left showered with broken glass after the explosion at around 8.20pm. The blast led to the evacuation of the station and nearby buildings as firefighters and police were scrambled to the scene. Trains were also temporarily prevented from stopping at the station. The blast blew out windows and doors on the stall and caused its flat roof to balloon outwards.
One witness said: “The place had not been open for a few months. There was a huge bang, but there was no flames or fire. I guess that some gas cylinders had been left there and must have leaked. The guys could have been working on it preparing to reopen.” Another woman said her house had been 'rocked' by the blast. A Suffolk Police statement said: “Stowmarket train station has now reopened following an incident in Station Road in the town. Police were called to reports of an explosion at 8.20pm. Firefighters and paramedics were also in attendance. At least one person is believed to have suffered injuries, however these are no longer believed to be serious. A police and fire cordon remains in place. The train station has now reopened and trains are running. Please check National Rail to see if train times are affected.”
A spokesperson for the East of England Ambulance Service said: “I can confirm that East of England Ambulance Service responded to an emergency call shortly before 8.30pm regarding an incident in Stowmarket. An ambulance and two rapid response vehicles attended the scene. Two patients were treated for minor injuries. One of the patients was transported to Ipswich Hospital for further care.”
The station was opened by the Ipswich & Bury Railway in 1846 with red brick main buildings in a flamboyant Jacobean manner by Frederick Barnes. The buildings were Grade II listed in 1972.
The Kings Arms pub also dates from the same period. It opened soon after an earlier pub of same name closed in Ipswich Street in 1857. This pub was owned by Cobbold's throughout its early history, and subsequently closed on May 6th, 1958. This pub then re-opened at the beginning of December 2009 after a 51 year closure. The name by which The Kings Arms came to be unofficially known was "The Two Sisters" derived from Mabel Harriet Southgate and Jessie Hilda Taylor nee Beaumont who ran the place in the first half of 20th century till it closed in 1958.
Both the Station and the Pub lie within the Stowmarket Conservation Area.
News Source: Daily Mail
Listing Details
Entry Name: Stowmarket Railway Station
Listing Date: 19 April 1972 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1292513 English Heritage Legacy ID: 384640 Location: Stowmarket, Mid Suffolk, Suffolk, IP14 County: Suffolk District: Mid Suffolk Civil Parish: Stowmarket Built-Up Area: Stowmarket Traditional County: Suffolk Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Suffolk Church of England Parish: Stowmarket St Peter and St Mary Church of England Diocese: St.Edmundsbury and Ipswich |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.1898 / 52°11'23"N Longitude: 1.0001 / 1°0'0"E OS Eastings: 605167 OS Northings: 258857 OS Grid: TM051588 Mapcode National: GBR SJM.MPF Mapcode Global: VHKDP.9725 Plus Code: 9F4352Q2+W3 |
22 August 2020 (16:03) - Fire crews tackle blaze inside Preston's abandoned Miley Tunnel
A blaze broke out inside Preston's 180-year-old Miley Tunnel on Saturday (August 22). City fire crews were called to the abandoned half-mile long tunnel in Deepdale after a heap of rubbish caught fire at 4pm. One fire engine and the aerial ladder platform (ALP) attended, with crews using the ladder to lower firefighters over the 10-foot security fence and down an embankment to the entrance of the disused railway line in Great George Street.
It took fire crews just over an hour to locate and extinguish the fire inside the pitch-black tunnel, which was originally built in 1840 as part of the Preston and Longridge Railway. A fire service spokesman said: "The reason we were in attendance in the Deepdale area of the city on Saturday was to gain access to a fire inside the Miley tunnel using the ALP. One fire engine and one aerial ladder platform from Preston fire station were called to a fire involving a small quantity of rubbish in the tunnel at 4.03pm. Crews were at the scene for just over an hour. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is under investigation.
News Source: Lancashire Post
It took fire crews just over an hour to locate and extinguish the fire inside the pitch-black tunnel, which was originally built in 1840 as part of the Preston and Longridge Railway. A fire service spokesman said: "The reason we were in attendance in the Deepdale area of the city on Saturday was to gain access to a fire inside the Miley tunnel using the ALP. One fire engine and one aerial ladder platform from Preston fire station were called to a fire involving a small quantity of rubbish in the tunnel at 4.03pm. Crews were at the scene for just over an hour. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is under investigation.
News Source: Lancashire Post
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The Preston and Longridge Railway Company was set up in 1836 and they opened a 6½-mile single-track line on the 1st. May 1840, with crude passenger facilities at Longridge, Grimsargh and Deepdale Street in Preston. In 1846, the Fleetwood, Preston and West Riding Junction Railway Company was set up. It had an ambitious plan to link Fleetwood on the Lancashire coast to Leeds and Bradford in Yorkshire. It would link the existing Preston and Wyre Joint Railway to the Longridge line in Preston, and build a new line from Grimsargh via Ribchester, Hurst Green and Clitheroe to Skipton, where it would join the proposed Leeds and Bradford Extension Railway. The line would give Lancashire passengers access to the spa towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough, and beauty spots such as Bolton Abbey. Reciprocally, it would give Yorkshire passengers access to the seaside resorts of Fleetwood and Blackpool.
Freight trains would carry cattle from Craven Valley, and stone from quarries near Clitheroe as well as from Longridge. Stonyhurst College would be within a mile of the line and would be able to use it to bring in supplies as well as pupils. The line originally ran horse drawn carriages but it was adapted for steam and the first steam-hauled train ran on Whit Monday 1848. In 1850, a double-track extension was built connecting to the existing line a few hundred yards east of the Deepdale Street terminus. The line passed via the 862-yard Miley Tunnel under the north part of Preston and connected to the Preston and Wyre Joint Railway very close to that line’s original terminus at Maudlands. The extension was initially used for goods only but in 1856 Miley Tunnel was opened to passengers, with new stations at each end, at Deepdale Bridge on Deepdale Road, and at Maudland Bridge.
The original Deepdale Street terminus was closed to passengers but continued to be used for goods. In June 1889, a private branch line was opened northwards from Grimsargh to Whittingham Mental Asylum two miles away. As well as supplies, hospital staff and visitors were carried free of charge in converted goods brake vans. As many as twelve trains per day were timed to connect with passenger trains at Grimsargh. The hospital line continued to operate long after the main branch closed to passengers in 1930, eventually closing on 29th. June 1957. The line to Longridge remained open to goods traffic until November 1967. Goods traffic continued to use part of the line as far as the Courtaulds factory at Red Scar, until the last train worked by class 25 diesel, number 25 142 on Friday 8th. February 1980.The track through Miley Tunnel, though rusty and overgrown, still exists. Trampower UK are planning now to use the line from the Miley Tunnel portal to Ribbleton, and eventually to provide a service on the line from the M6 Junction 31A into Preston city centre.
Local legend has it the Miley tunnel is haunted by the ghost of the Grey lady. The story goes that a young girl was killed when a man on a train grabbed her hand, and she accidentally fell from the platform under the wheels of the train. This happened at Deepdale station in the late 1800s. The man was arrested and stood trial. He could have, had he been convicted, been hung for her murder, but whilst it was proven to be him who the girl grabbed hold of, it couldn't be proven whether he kept hold of her, or she kept hold of him and he got away with it. She shares her "haunt" with the spirits of numerous Victorian children who are supposed to have died labouring on the tunnel excavation. Children and teenagers in the area will dare each other to walk the tunnel.
Miley Tunnel has also been the site of several accidents in recent years. Two young men were injured in separate incidents in 1998 and 2000, each falling over 30 feet into the tunnel off a wall near Moor Lane. On Christmas Day 2002, a drunken youth fell to his death at the same point. Network Rail erected 10-foot fences six weeks later. In October 2003 another drunken man fell onto the disused line at Maudland Bank but escaped serious injury.
Access to Miley Tunnel is very easy indeed, via a car park at the Preston end, or down the cutting side from waste land at the Deepdale end. The tunnel is not continuous, but is actually several tunnels, in places open to the skies. About a third of the way along from the Deepdale end two tunnels are actually joined together underground by steel girders and concrete. This is rather unusual as the original masonry arches of both tunnel portals are still readily apparent and it looks as though the footpath or road over one of the two tunnels could still be accessed with appropriate climbing gear as there appears to be a void beneath the bridge work.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The Preston and Longridge Railway Company was set up in 1836 and they opened a 6½-mile single-track line on the 1st. May 1840, with crude passenger facilities at Longridge, Grimsargh and Deepdale Street in Preston. In 1846, the Fleetwood, Preston and West Riding Junction Railway Company was set up. It had an ambitious plan to link Fleetwood on the Lancashire coast to Leeds and Bradford in Yorkshire. It would link the existing Preston and Wyre Joint Railway to the Longridge line in Preston, and build a new line from Grimsargh via Ribchester, Hurst Green and Clitheroe to Skipton, where it would join the proposed Leeds and Bradford Extension Railway. The line would give Lancashire passengers access to the spa towns of Harrogate and Knaresborough, and beauty spots such as Bolton Abbey. Reciprocally, it would give Yorkshire passengers access to the seaside resorts of Fleetwood and Blackpool.
Freight trains would carry cattle from Craven Valley, and stone from quarries near Clitheroe as well as from Longridge. Stonyhurst College would be within a mile of the line and would be able to use it to bring in supplies as well as pupils. The line originally ran horse drawn carriages but it was adapted for steam and the first steam-hauled train ran on Whit Monday 1848. In 1850, a double-track extension was built connecting to the existing line a few hundred yards east of the Deepdale Street terminus. The line passed via the 862-yard Miley Tunnel under the north part of Preston and connected to the Preston and Wyre Joint Railway very close to that line’s original terminus at Maudlands. The extension was initially used for goods only but in 1856 Miley Tunnel was opened to passengers, with new stations at each end, at Deepdale Bridge on Deepdale Road, and at Maudland Bridge.
The original Deepdale Street terminus was closed to passengers but continued to be used for goods. In June 1889, a private branch line was opened northwards from Grimsargh to Whittingham Mental Asylum two miles away. As well as supplies, hospital staff and visitors were carried free of charge in converted goods brake vans. As many as twelve trains per day were timed to connect with passenger trains at Grimsargh. The hospital line continued to operate long after the main branch closed to passengers in 1930, eventually closing on 29th. June 1957. The line to Longridge remained open to goods traffic until November 1967. Goods traffic continued to use part of the line as far as the Courtaulds factory at Red Scar, until the last train worked by class 25 diesel, number 25 142 on Friday 8th. February 1980.The track through Miley Tunnel, though rusty and overgrown, still exists. Trampower UK are planning now to use the line from the Miley Tunnel portal to Ribbleton, and eventually to provide a service on the line from the M6 Junction 31A into Preston city centre.
Local legend has it the Miley tunnel is haunted by the ghost of the Grey lady. The story goes that a young girl was killed when a man on a train grabbed her hand, and she accidentally fell from the platform under the wheels of the train. This happened at Deepdale station in the late 1800s. The man was arrested and stood trial. He could have, had he been convicted, been hung for her murder, but whilst it was proven to be him who the girl grabbed hold of, it couldn't be proven whether he kept hold of her, or she kept hold of him and he got away with it. She shares her "haunt" with the spirits of numerous Victorian children who are supposed to have died labouring on the tunnel excavation. Children and teenagers in the area will dare each other to walk the tunnel.
Miley Tunnel has also been the site of several accidents in recent years. Two young men were injured in separate incidents in 1998 and 2000, each falling over 30 feet into the tunnel off a wall near Moor Lane. On Christmas Day 2002, a drunken youth fell to his death at the same point. Network Rail erected 10-foot fences six weeks later. In October 2003 another drunken man fell onto the disused line at Maudland Bank but escaped serious injury.
Access to Miley Tunnel is very easy indeed, via a car park at the Preston end, or down the cutting side from waste land at the Deepdale end. The tunnel is not continuous, but is actually several tunnels, in places open to the skies. About a third of the way along from the Deepdale end two tunnels are actually joined together underground by steel girders and concrete. This is rather unusual as the original masonry arches of both tunnel portals are still readily apparent and it looks as though the footpath or road over one of the two tunnels could still be accessed with appropriate climbing gear as there appears to be a void beneath the bridge work.
21 August 2020 (17:55*) - Fire breaks out above Perth pub
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are dealing with a fire above a popular Perth pub, after the alarm was raised just before 6pm on Friday. Six appliances from The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are on scene dealing with a flat fire above one of Perth’s popular pubs, The Venue in St John Street. Customers and staff have safely been evacuated due to the on-going incident. Reports are suggesting the fire started at the front in the abandoned flats that were previously damaged in another incident in February when Storm Ciara caused a chimney breast to fall from the next door property, resulting in structural collapse of part of the roof. The Scottish Ambulance Service are also on scene however, it’s believed there are no serious injuries. The scene remains closed off by Police Scotland.
The early 19th century building is Category B listed and lies within the Perth Central Conservation Area.
News Source: Perth Gazette
The early 19th century building is Category B listed and lies within the Perth Central Conservation Area.
News Source: Perth Gazette
Listing Details
Entry Name: St John Street, (E. Side) 38, 40
Listing Date: 20 May 1965 Category: B Source: Historic Scotland Source ID: 385359 Historic Scotland Designation Reference: LB39616 Building Class: Cultural Location: Perth County: Perth and Kinross Town: Perth Electoral Ward: Perth City Centre Traditional County: Perthshire |
Coordinates
Latitude: 56.396 / 56°23'45"N Longitude: -3.4273 / 3°25'38"W OS Eastings: 311996 OS Northings: 723549 OS Grid: NO119235 Mapcode National: GBR 1Z.0XPW Mapcode Global: WH6QC.BH6M Plus Code: 9C8R9HWF+93 |
20 August 2020 (04:00) - Liskeard fire: 50 firefighters tackle huge blaze with roads closed
More than 50 firefighters from across Cornwall are tackling a huge blaze in Liskeard this morning. Residents are being told to keep their windows closed and a number of roads in the town have been closed. Police and paramedics are also at the scene of the fire - a four story domestic property on Cannon Hill. Fire crews and appliances from nine fire stations in Cornwall, and appliances from stations in neighbouring Devon, have been sent the blaze. Roads and traffic monitoring service Inrix says that Castle Hill is closed in both directions, between Market Street and Castle Street - with surrounding local roads also closed. One person was taken to Derriford Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. A pet dog is also believed to have sadly died in the fire.
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CRFS) were first alerted to the blaze shortly before 4am this morning. The CRFS newsdesk said: "Appliances from Liskeard were mobilised, on arrival the crews found a domestic property consisting of four floors well alight, a request for further resources was made and appliances from Callington, Looe, Lostwithiel, Saltash and Bodmin were mobilised, also an aerial ladder platform from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue was requested, the operational support vehicle from St. Austell and the command support vehicle from Launceston were mobilised. Over fifty firefighters and four Officers are on scene."
In an update at 5.43am, CFRS said: "Teams of firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using main jets and hosereel jets at this time. Devon & Cornwall Police and South West Ambulance Trust are also in attendance." At 5.55am CFRS said: "The Environmental Support Vehicle from Saltash and the Welfare Vehicle from St. Dennis are also attending. At 6am, CFRS said: "Residents are being advised to keep their windows shut in the vicinity due to a large smoke plume in the area."
The fire is believed to have started in the basement and spread through the rest of the building. Group manager Lee Griffin said the fire - which has now been extinguished - was "significant" and "challenging". "The fire had taken hold and it was progressing through the property and it could have potentially caught the adjacent properties," he said. “A young male has been taken to Derriford Hospital with smoke inhalation - I'm not sure of the extent of his injuries. That's the only human casualty but unfortunately there was a dog that died in the property. We were unable to save the dog."
The four-floor terraced property as well as neighbouring flats have suffered "significant damage", the fire service said. "There's some smoke and water damage to adjacent properties, so unfortunately those people have got to be displaced, and also the people in the main house," Mr Griffin added.
No 2 Cannon Hill is a Grade II listed town house, built in 1862 (datestone).
News Source: Cornwall Live
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CRFS) were first alerted to the blaze shortly before 4am this morning. The CRFS newsdesk said: "Appliances from Liskeard were mobilised, on arrival the crews found a domestic property consisting of four floors well alight, a request for further resources was made and appliances from Callington, Looe, Lostwithiel, Saltash and Bodmin were mobilised, also an aerial ladder platform from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue was requested, the operational support vehicle from St. Austell and the command support vehicle from Launceston were mobilised. Over fifty firefighters and four Officers are on scene."
In an update at 5.43am, CFRS said: "Teams of firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using main jets and hosereel jets at this time. Devon & Cornwall Police and South West Ambulance Trust are also in attendance." At 5.55am CFRS said: "The Environmental Support Vehicle from Saltash and the Welfare Vehicle from St. Dennis are also attending. At 6am, CFRS said: "Residents are being advised to keep their windows shut in the vicinity due to a large smoke plume in the area."
The fire is believed to have started in the basement and spread through the rest of the building. Group manager Lee Griffin said the fire - which has now been extinguished - was "significant" and "challenging". "The fire had taken hold and it was progressing through the property and it could have potentially caught the adjacent properties," he said. “A young male has been taken to Derriford Hospital with smoke inhalation - I'm not sure of the extent of his injuries. That's the only human casualty but unfortunately there was a dog that died in the property. We were unable to save the dog."
The four-floor terraced property as well as neighbouring flats have suffered "significant damage", the fire service said. "There's some smoke and water damage to adjacent properties, so unfortunately those people have got to be displaced, and also the people in the main house," Mr Griffin added.
No 2 Cannon Hill is a Grade II listed town house, built in 1862 (datestone).
News Source: Cornwall Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: 2, Cannon Hill
Listing Date: 15 November 1993 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1280369 English Heritage Legacy ID: 382129 Location: Liskeard, Cornwall, PL14 County: Cornwall Civil Parish: Liskeard Built-Up Area: Liskeard Traditional County: Cornwall Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cornwall Church of England Parish: Liskeard Church of England Diocese: Truro |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.454 / 50°27'14"N Longitude: -4.4626 / 4°27'45"W OS Eastings: 225284 OS Northings: 64473 OS Grid: SX252644 Mapcode National: GBR NF.NRKH Mapcode Global: FRA 17JV.K8K Plus Code: 9C2QFG3P+JX |
18 August 2020 (22:00*) - Firefighters called to church as smoke seen billowing from basement
Smoke coming from the basement of a church was discovered by fire crews to have quite an unusual cause. Firefighters from Lutterworth Station attended the incident at Wycliffe Memorial Methodist Church in Coventry Road, Lutterworth last night (August 18) following reports of smoke coming from the basement after 10pm.
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus went into the building to extinguish the fire and find out what had happened. Once inside, they discovered the surprisingly musical cause. The smoke was found to be issuing from the fan within the church's organ. Fortunately the fire had already been extinguished, and the fire crews left the scene.
The church was built soon after 1901. The site of the future chapel was vacant land in this year, but its style suggests that it was built shortly thereafter. It is unusual among chapels located between the branches of a Y junction in that it presents a side view rather than the main entrance gable to those approaching up the leg of the Y. The obelisk to the left of the church, on the corner of Coventry Road and Bitteswell Road, may have influenced the orientation of the chapel premises. It commemorates John Wycliffe, a 14th century clergyman, who is credited with translating the bible into English for the first time. He is thought to have been born in Yorkshire but became rector of Lutterworth. He believed that the bible should be accessible to all, and not just the preserve of the clergy. Although he died peacefully in Lutterworth, his views were later declared heretical. In 1940 the chapel had seating for 250 persons in pews and there was one schoolroom and five other rooms.
News Source: Leicester Mercury / Leicestershire Live
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus went into the building to extinguish the fire and find out what had happened. Once inside, they discovered the surprisingly musical cause. The smoke was found to be issuing from the fan within the church's organ. Fortunately the fire had already been extinguished, and the fire crews left the scene.
The church was built soon after 1901. The site of the future chapel was vacant land in this year, but its style suggests that it was built shortly thereafter. It is unusual among chapels located between the branches of a Y junction in that it presents a side view rather than the main entrance gable to those approaching up the leg of the Y. The obelisk to the left of the church, on the corner of Coventry Road and Bitteswell Road, may have influenced the orientation of the chapel premises. It commemorates John Wycliffe, a 14th century clergyman, who is credited with translating the bible into English for the first time. He is thought to have been born in Yorkshire but became rector of Lutterworth. He believed that the bible should be accessible to all, and not just the preserve of the clergy. Although he died peacefully in Lutterworth, his views were later declared heretical. In 1940 the chapel had seating for 250 persons in pews and there was one schoolroom and five other rooms.
News Source: Leicester Mercury / Leicestershire Live
16 August 2020 (18:45) - Blackburn fire: Firefighters deal with small blaze at Mill Hill Hotel
Firefighters in Blackburn were called to the Mill Hill Hotel in Blackburn yesterday evening after smoke was seen coming from the building's basement. Four engines arrived at the scene at around 6.45pm on Sunday and quickly dealt with the small fire in the Mill Hill Bridge Street venue. It is believed to have been caused by a discarded cigarette. Fortunately no one was injured.
The pub was built for Thwaites Brewery in the early part of the 20th century and is
Locally Listed.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
The pub was built for Thwaites Brewery in the early part of the 20th century and is
Locally Listed.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
16 August 2020 (03:00*) - Four men die after car crashes into house and catches fire
Four young men have died after a car crashed into a house and caught fire, police said. The incident happened at 3am on Sunday on the A4 in Derry Hill, near Calne, Wiltshire. The vehicle burst into a fireball following the crash with a number of heroic passing members of the public failing in their frantic efforts to free the casualties from the wreckage. The car left the road, entered undergrowth, hit the side of a house and overturned in the collision on A4 London Road – on the bend near to The Lysley Arms pub.
Wiltshire Police said the occupants of the house immediately called 999 and were evacuated from the property while the fire service extinguished the blaze. Nobody inside the house was injured but the four occupants of the vehicle, all young men from the local area, died at the scene. Firefighters from Calne spent several hours working at the scene this afternoon, extricating the deceased from the car alongside detectives and crime scene investigators.
Superintendent Steve Cox said: “This was an absolutely horrific collision on our roads in the early hours of this morning. All blue light services attended the scene and were met with devastating scenes after a vehicle travelling along the A4 collided with a house and caught on fire. All four occupants of the vehicle died at the scene. Their families have been informed and we are in the process of assigning each family with specialist trained officers. My thoughts, and the thoughts of all at Wiltshire Police, are with them all today.” Police said the A4 and the A342 remain closed while investigation and recovery work continues at the scene. Officers are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.
Update: Visibly shaken, an elderly occupant of the house returned Monday morning to examine his scarred and burned house and garden. Accompanied by a friend, he solemnly surveyed the damage, as a handful of neighbours stood quietly by. People living in the close knit community of Old Derry Hill are still too shocked to talk about the horrific incident, some still shaking and holding back tears. Flowers have been laid at the roadside in Derry Hill, where the car left the road in the direction of Chippenham, just past the Lysley Arms and ploughed through a hedge and a low barrier before crashing into the house and catching fire.
Calne Without parish councillor Jim Cook stepped in to say: "This is obviously very upsetting for people here, but all of our thoughts are with the family of those poor young men. This is a terrible tragedy." Their identities have not yet been made public, and police said all their families are being supported by specially-trained officers. The men's ages have not been released, but they were all believed to come from the Calne area and are understood to have been in their late teens or early 20s.
The house that the car collided with is at No 1 Old Derry Hill. It is a large period home that was built in 1884 (datestone).
News Source: Express and Star
Wiltshire Police said the occupants of the house immediately called 999 and were evacuated from the property while the fire service extinguished the blaze. Nobody inside the house was injured but the four occupants of the vehicle, all young men from the local area, died at the scene. Firefighters from Calne spent several hours working at the scene this afternoon, extricating the deceased from the car alongside detectives and crime scene investigators.
Superintendent Steve Cox said: “This was an absolutely horrific collision on our roads in the early hours of this morning. All blue light services attended the scene and were met with devastating scenes after a vehicle travelling along the A4 collided with a house and caught on fire. All four occupants of the vehicle died at the scene. Their families have been informed and we are in the process of assigning each family with specialist trained officers. My thoughts, and the thoughts of all at Wiltshire Police, are with them all today.” Police said the A4 and the A342 remain closed while investigation and recovery work continues at the scene. Officers are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.
Update: Visibly shaken, an elderly occupant of the house returned Monday morning to examine his scarred and burned house and garden. Accompanied by a friend, he solemnly surveyed the damage, as a handful of neighbours stood quietly by. People living in the close knit community of Old Derry Hill are still too shocked to talk about the horrific incident, some still shaking and holding back tears. Flowers have been laid at the roadside in Derry Hill, where the car left the road in the direction of Chippenham, just past the Lysley Arms and ploughed through a hedge and a low barrier before crashing into the house and catching fire.
Calne Without parish councillor Jim Cook stepped in to say: "This is obviously very upsetting for people here, but all of our thoughts are with the family of those poor young men. This is a terrible tragedy." Their identities have not yet been made public, and police said all their families are being supported by specially-trained officers. The men's ages have not been released, but they were all believed to come from the Calne area and are understood to have been in their late teens or early 20s.
The house that the car collided with is at No 1 Old Derry Hill. It is a large period home that was built in 1884 (datestone).
News Source: Express and Star
15 August 2020 (19:28) - Firefighters battle blaze at old Viewforth High School in Kirkcaldy
Firefighters have responded to reports of a “large fire” at the old Viewforth High School in Kirkcaldy this evening. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service sent six fire engines to the scene on Loughborough Road, Dysart, where they are working to douse the flames. The alert was raised at around 7:30pm, and the thick smoke could be seen across the town – and as far away as Seafield.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 7.28pm on Saturday, August 15 to reports that a fire had taken hold within a building. Operations Control has mobilised six fire appliances to Old Viewforth High School in Kirkcaldy and crews are presently working to contain and extinguish the fire.” Kirkaldy police, who are supporting fire crews at the scene, warned nearby residents to keep their doors and windows closed due to the amount of smoke billowing out of the "large fire” at the building. Officers have shut Loughborough Road to traffic between Aitken Street and Windmill Road, and warned residents to “remain away from the area” for their safety.
Video footage from the scene shows smoke from the school building, which closed to pupils in 2016, rising into the sky over Kirkcaldy. Local resident Nathan Bennett said: "I'd noticed our street was busier than usual with traffic, but didn't think anything of it until I saw the police. I went outside and the sky was filled with smoke, and walked around the corner to see a huge crowd of people watching the blaze, it was massive."
The former school has been hit by major fires several times in the past, there were two earlier this year, and, in 2017, a major blaze broke out sending smoke billowing high across the town’s skyline. The school was designed by David Forbes Smith and opened in 1908. It is a Category C listed building.
News Source: Edinburgh Evening News
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 7.28pm on Saturday, August 15 to reports that a fire had taken hold within a building. Operations Control has mobilised six fire appliances to Old Viewforth High School in Kirkcaldy and crews are presently working to contain and extinguish the fire.” Kirkaldy police, who are supporting fire crews at the scene, warned nearby residents to keep their doors and windows closed due to the amount of smoke billowing out of the "large fire” at the building. Officers have shut Loughborough Road to traffic between Aitken Street and Windmill Road, and warned residents to “remain away from the area” for their safety.
Video footage from the scene shows smoke from the school building, which closed to pupils in 2016, rising into the sky over Kirkcaldy. Local resident Nathan Bennett said: "I'd noticed our street was busier than usual with traffic, but didn't think anything of it until I saw the police. I went outside and the sky was filled with smoke, and walked around the corner to see a huge crowd of people watching the blaze, it was massive."
The former school has been hit by major fires several times in the past, there were two earlier this year, and, in 2017, a major blaze broke out sending smoke billowing high across the town’s skyline. The school was designed by David Forbes Smith and opened in 1908. It is a Category C listed building.
News Source: Edinburgh Evening News
Listing Details
Entry Name: Loughborough Road, Viewforth High School
Listing Date: 26 March 1998 Category: C Source: Historic Scotland Source ID: 392477 Historic Scotland Designation Reference: LB45537 Building Class: Cultural Location: Kirkcaldy County: Fife Town: Kirkcaldy Electoral Ward: Kirkcaldy East Traditional County: Fife |
Coordinates
Latitude: 56.1255 / 56°7'31"N Longitude: -3.1334 / 3°8'0"W OS Eastings: 329639 OS Northings: 693103 OS Grid: NT296931 Mapcode National: GBR 2B.L40C Mapcode Global: WH6RV.V92H Plus Code: 9C8R4VG8+5J |
Near Miss
15 August 2020 (16:45*) - Probe follows fire in derelict Blackpool hotel at North Shore
15 August 2020 (16:45*) - Probe follows fire in derelict Blackpool hotel at North Shore
Four fire engines and an aerial ladder platform from Blackpool, South Shore, St Anne’s and Bispham attended the incident on King Edward Avenue. Crews equipped with breathing apparatus used two jets, a ventilation unit and a thermal imaging camera to extinguish the fire. The fire sent smoke billowing across North Promenade, where traffic was stopped for a time, shortly before 5pm. An eyewitness said there had been substantial damage to the first floor of the building.
The fire was at the former Moorfield Hotel. It is next door to the Cliffs Hotel, on the corner of Queen's Promenade and King Edward Avenue. The hotel was built in 1921 and architect, Halstead Best, enlarged the building 1936–37 and added an underground carpark. It is in the Baroque style and constructed of red brick and yellow terracotta. The gables have horizontal stripes. The Cliffs is owned by Choice Hotels Ltd and has 163 bedrooms
News Source: Blackpool Gazette
The fire was at the former Moorfield Hotel. It is next door to the Cliffs Hotel, on the corner of Queen's Promenade and King Edward Avenue. The hotel was built in 1921 and architect, Halstead Best, enlarged the building 1936–37 and added an underground carpark. It is in the Baroque style and constructed of red brick and yellow terracotta. The gables have horizontal stripes. The Cliffs is owned by Choice Hotels Ltd and has 163 bedrooms
News Source: Blackpool Gazette
15 August 2020 (01:15) - Fire destroys historic former coach house near Southampton airport
Fire has destroyed a former coach house, which later became a farmhouse, near Southampton Airport. Crews were called to the "well developed fire" in Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, just north of the M27, shortly after 01:15 BST. Firefighters spent the night battling the blaze but were unable to save the three-storey building.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews from 15 stations were involved in the operation, along with the Urban Search and Rescue team, which had been called amid fears the building could collapse. Crews from Eastleigh, St Mary's, Redbridge, Hightown, Portchester, Gosport and Southsea Fire Stations were on the scene. According to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services, further support vehicles from Beaulieu, Romsey, Basingstoke with additional appliances from Bishop's Waltham and Alresford were used to relieve the firefighters who had been working through the night. The fire was out by 10:30 am but firefighters were due to return to check for hotspots. Investigators are also due to visit to establish the cause.
Taking to social media, a spokesman for the station said: "54P6 and 54P7 attended a fire as part of a make up in a derelict building in Stoneham tonight. We were initially faced with a well developed fire. Great work by all attending crews." This morning Eastleigh Fire Station Tweeted about the incident and explained that they could not save the building. It said: "White Watch and our On Call crew have just returned from the 8 pump fire in Eastleigh, unfortunately we couldn’t save the building but crews now have the fire under control and are damping down."
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "Police attended, investigations are ongoing but at this stage there is nothing to suggest it is being treated as suspicious." Most of the building's roof was destroyed in the flames, which totally engulfed the property. The building was derelict and it is believed that no one was hurt in the fire.
Update: A 27-year-old man from Eastleigh has now been arrested on suspicion of arson and remains in police custody.
Built in the mid to late 18th century, the building was originally the coach house and stables for North Stoneham House (built 1818-43; demolished 1939). After a fire in 1874 destroyed the estate’s farm buildings, the coach house and stables became Park Farm, with the coach house converted into a residence, and later used as a as a guest house.
According to planning documents, the coach house was due to be restored and converted as part of plans for a state-of-the-art care home and specialist accommodation for the elderly on the Park Farm site. “The proposed care village is set to comprise a prestigious 7000 sq.m., mansion-style building that pays homage to the site’s heritage and will offer 40 luxurious, high quality care suites along with a wealth of fabulous facilities, including a restaurant, impressive lounges, spa, salon and swimming pool and enviable communal spaces.”
News Source: BBC News
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews from 15 stations were involved in the operation, along with the Urban Search and Rescue team, which had been called amid fears the building could collapse. Crews from Eastleigh, St Mary's, Redbridge, Hightown, Portchester, Gosport and Southsea Fire Stations were on the scene. According to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services, further support vehicles from Beaulieu, Romsey, Basingstoke with additional appliances from Bishop's Waltham and Alresford were used to relieve the firefighters who had been working through the night. The fire was out by 10:30 am but firefighters were due to return to check for hotspots. Investigators are also due to visit to establish the cause.
Taking to social media, a spokesman for the station said: "54P6 and 54P7 attended a fire as part of a make up in a derelict building in Stoneham tonight. We were initially faced with a well developed fire. Great work by all attending crews." This morning Eastleigh Fire Station Tweeted about the incident and explained that they could not save the building. It said: "White Watch and our On Call crew have just returned from the 8 pump fire in Eastleigh, unfortunately we couldn’t save the building but crews now have the fire under control and are damping down."
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "Police attended, investigations are ongoing but at this stage there is nothing to suggest it is being treated as suspicious." Most of the building's roof was destroyed in the flames, which totally engulfed the property. The building was derelict and it is believed that no one was hurt in the fire.
Update: A 27-year-old man from Eastleigh has now been arrested on suspicion of arson and remains in police custody.
Built in the mid to late 18th century, the building was originally the coach house and stables for North Stoneham House (built 1818-43; demolished 1939). After a fire in 1874 destroyed the estate’s farm buildings, the coach house and stables became Park Farm, with the coach house converted into a residence, and later used as a as a guest house.
According to planning documents, the coach house was due to be restored and converted as part of plans for a state-of-the-art care home and specialist accommodation for the elderly on the Park Farm site. “The proposed care village is set to comprise a prestigious 7000 sq.m., mansion-style building that pays homage to the site’s heritage and will offer 40 luxurious, high quality care suites along with a wealth of fabulous facilities, including a restaurant, impressive lounges, spa, salon and swimming pool and enviable communal spaces.”
News Source: BBC News
14 August 2020 (19:30) - Fire crews called to fourth fire in a month at derelict listed building in Gosport's Anglesey Road
Crews from stations in Gosport, Fareham. Portchester, and Southampton, as well as an aerial platform from Southsea Fire Station, were called to Anglesey Lodge in Anglesey Road, Gosport, at 7.30pm last night. More than 20 firefighters were there for two hours tackling the blaze, which damaged an exterior wall of the early 19th century building. It is the latest in a series of fires that firefighters believe have been deliberately started by trespassers.
A firefighter from Gosport Fire Station said: “I think we have been called out there four times in the last month. The owner has put up fencing and razor wire, but kids find a way to break in. It’s an ongoing eyesore. There is a basement in the building and our worry is that some kids will get trapped in there and be seriously injured or die.”
No one was injured in the latest fire, with a large number of firefighters in attendance due to the complex layout of the building, according to the attending firefighter. Photographer Dan Harbut, from Lee-on-the-Solent, who was passing the building when he saw it alight, said: ‘I was told by the fire brigade that it’s a listed building which is why so many different crews were sent, the site is regularly being broken into by people to explore the abandoned buildings and they have really increased the security at the site lately but is still accessible in areas.’
Anglesey Lodge was built around 1830 – 1840. It is Grade II listed. In the 1930s it was owned by the National Children’s Home, Alverstoke. It was later used by Hampshire Autistic Society.
News Source: The Portsmouth News
A firefighter from Gosport Fire Station said: “I think we have been called out there four times in the last month. The owner has put up fencing and razor wire, but kids find a way to break in. It’s an ongoing eyesore. There is a basement in the building and our worry is that some kids will get trapped in there and be seriously injured or die.”
No one was injured in the latest fire, with a large number of firefighters in attendance due to the complex layout of the building, according to the attending firefighter. Photographer Dan Harbut, from Lee-on-the-Solent, who was passing the building when he saw it alight, said: ‘I was told by the fire brigade that it’s a listed building which is why so many different crews were sent, the site is regularly being broken into by people to explore the abandoned buildings and they have really increased the security at the site lately but is still accessible in areas.’
Anglesey Lodge was built around 1830 – 1840. It is Grade II listed. In the 1930s it was owned by the National Children’s Home, Alverstoke. It was later used by Hampshire Autistic Society.
News Source: The Portsmouth News
Listing Details
Entry Name: Anglesey Lodge
Listing Date: 17 June 1976 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1232647 English Heritage Legacy ID: 408037 Location: Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 County: Hampshire District: Gosport Town: Gosport Electoral Ward/Division: Anglesey Built-Up Area: Gosport Traditional County: Hampshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Hampshire Church of England Parish: Alverstoke St Mary Church of England Diocese: Portsmouth |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.7833 / 50°46'59"N Longitude: -1.1487 / 1°8'55"W OS Eastings: 460111 OS Northings: 98533 OS Grid: SZ601985 Mapcode National: GBR 9BW.Y42 Mapcode Global: FRA 87H0.LBL Plus Code: 9C2WQVM2+8G |
14 August 2020 (17:00*) - Cadbury Club committee member 'devastated' by loss of 100-year-old Bournville building
A committee member of The Cadbury Club has spoken of his "sadness and devastation" after a fire ravaged the historic building in Bournville. Devastated Peter Lucas spoke as firefighters tackled a huge blaze which had engulfed the social club in Bournville Lane this evening (Friday). Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the inferno which is believed to have started in a small room by the bar.
Mr Lucas said the social club had only just reopened last weekend following the coronavirus lockdown. He said: "It is just absolutely devastating - so sad. Firefighters are doing their best to try and save the original roof which is 100 years old but I am not sure it can be saved. It is such a popular club. We have more than 400 members here and they are going to be absolutely devastated. We are not sure what caused the fire at the moment though we believe it started in a small room by the bar area. The building is around 100 years old and has had extensions over the years. It really doesn't look good. I am not sure if it can be saved. It is so sad."
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze. There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road. Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety. West Midlands Fire Service tweeted: "Crews from @KingsNortonFire @Bournbrookfire @Northfieldfire @BillesleyFire @HighgateFire @Woodgatefire @Smethwickfire @Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a severe fire in Bournville. 4 main jets are in use. Please avoid Bournville Lane, Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area." A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said: "Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club. Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze."
Witnesses have been taking to Twitter to express their shock at the fire. David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted: "The Cadbury Club is burning down! you can see the smoke for a mile or two away. Firefighters on site containing it as best they can." Alana Tomlin tweeted: "I live in this building here, we are evacuated and @WestMidsFire doing amazing job. Road closed Bournville Lane. Hope no one hurt, doesn’t look like it so far."
An update from crews on Monday, August 17, read: "Our investigators say Friday's fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville Birmingham started accidentally. It is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault in a light fitting."
News Source: Birmingham Mail
Mr Lucas said the social club had only just reopened last weekend following the coronavirus lockdown. He said: "It is just absolutely devastating - so sad. Firefighters are doing their best to try and save the original roof which is 100 years old but I am not sure it can be saved. It is such a popular club. We have more than 400 members here and they are going to be absolutely devastated. We are not sure what caused the fire at the moment though we believe it started in a small room by the bar area. The building is around 100 years old and has had extensions over the years. It really doesn't look good. I am not sure if it can be saved. It is so sad."
West Midlands Fire Service is currently warning people to avoid the local area as they tackle the blaze. There are currently restrictions in place on Bournville Lane and Mary Vale Road. Residents from nearby buildings are believed to have been evacuated for their own safety. West Midlands Fire Service tweeted: "Crews from @KingsNortonFire @Bournbrookfire @Northfieldfire @BillesleyFire @HighgateFire @Woodgatefire @Smethwickfire @Oldburyfire are currently dealing with a severe fire in Bournville. 4 main jets are in use. Please avoid Bournville Lane, Mary Vale Round and the surrounding area." A West Midlands Service spokeswoman said: "Six appliances and a hydraulic platform are at the scene of the fire at the social club. Fifty firefighters are currently tackling the blaze."
Witnesses have been taking to Twitter to express their shock at the fire. David from Brum Baby Bank tweeted: "The Cadbury Club is burning down! you can see the smoke for a mile or two away. Firefighters on site containing it as best they can." Alana Tomlin tweeted: "I live in this building here, we are evacuated and @WestMidsFire doing amazing job. Road closed Bournville Lane. Hope no one hurt, doesn’t look like it so far."
An update from crews on Monday, August 17, read: "Our investigators say Friday's fire at the Cadbury Club in Bournville Birmingham started accidentally. It is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault in a light fitting."
News Source: Birmingham Mail
Near Miss
14 August 2020 (14:30) - Quick-thinking Richmond petrol station staff prevented fire from destroying other buildings
14 August 2020 (14:30) - Quick-thinking Richmond petrol station staff prevented fire from destroying other buildings
Staff fleeing a fire that broke out at a petrol station in Richmond on Friday managed to shut off the fuel supply to the forecourt before they escaped. The action of the quick-thinking employees minimised the risk of further ignitions and there were no injuries reported.
About 50 firefighters from across North Yorkshire and County Durham battled the blaze at the Harvest Energy fuel station Friday afternoon after being alerted at 2.30pm. Several nearby buildings and Richmondshire Cricket Club were evacuated. The fire quickly spread and the petrol station has been gutted. The roof of the building has been destroyed and the shop has been burnt out, while it is understood nearby properties suffered smoke damage. The extensive damage is clearly visible in photos taken on Saturday morning by local resident Douglas Waugh.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated. Fire crews have now scaled down their presence at the scene, having remained there overnight to dampen down the remains. A statement from Harvest Energy read:
"Harvest Energy, a member of the Prax Group of companies has confirmed that on Friday August 14, a fire occurred at the Victoria Road service station in Richmond, North Yorkshire. No member of staff or the public were injured. The site is secure and the situation has now been contained by the fire service. The company is working fully and transparently with local authorities. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and there was no damage to nearby residential properties. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our team at Victoria Road service station who dealt with the outbreak of the fire in a calm and professional manner, and to the local emergency services who worked tirelessly into the night to contain the fire. We remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of our employees, the local community and the wider general public. We will also be taking steps to eliminate any subsequent damage caused to the local environment."
Ivy Lodge, an early 19th century Grade II listed house is next door to the service station. The listing states that Nos 19 to 25 (odd), which includes the service station, form a group. The Zetland Cinema, which opened 27th October 1937, is just a couple of doors away on the other side. The cinema closed on 16th April 1983 and is now occupied by the Influence Church.
News Source: The Yorkshire Post
About 50 firefighters from across North Yorkshire and County Durham battled the blaze at the Harvest Energy fuel station Friday afternoon after being alerted at 2.30pm. Several nearby buildings and Richmondshire Cricket Club were evacuated. The fire quickly spread and the petrol station has been gutted. The roof of the building has been destroyed and the shop has been burnt out, while it is understood nearby properties suffered smoke damage. The extensive damage is clearly visible in photos taken on Saturday morning by local resident Douglas Waugh.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated. Fire crews have now scaled down their presence at the scene, having remained there overnight to dampen down the remains. A statement from Harvest Energy read:
"Harvest Energy, a member of the Prax Group of companies has confirmed that on Friday August 14, a fire occurred at the Victoria Road service station in Richmond, North Yorkshire. No member of staff or the public were injured. The site is secure and the situation has now been contained by the fire service. The company is working fully and transparently with local authorities. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and there was no damage to nearby residential properties. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our team at Victoria Road service station who dealt with the outbreak of the fire in a calm and professional manner, and to the local emergency services who worked tirelessly into the night to contain the fire. We remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of our employees, the local community and the wider general public. We will also be taking steps to eliminate any subsequent damage caused to the local environment."
Ivy Lodge, an early 19th century Grade II listed house is next door to the service station. The listing states that Nos 19 to 25 (odd), which includes the service station, form a group. The Zetland Cinema, which opened 27th October 1937, is just a couple of doors away on the other side. The cinema closed on 16th April 1983 and is now occupied by the Influence Church.
News Source: The Yorkshire Post
Listing Details
Entry Name: Ivy Lodge
Listing Date: 15 October 1973 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1334317 English Heritage Legacy ID: 439748 Location: Richmond, Richmondshire, North Yorkshire, DL10 County: North Yorkshire District: Richmondshire Civil Parish: Richmond Built-Up Area: Richmond Traditional County: Yorkshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): North Yorkshire Church of England Parish: Richmond with Holy Trinity with Hudswell Church of England Diocese: Leeds |
Coordinates
Latitude: 54.4045 / 54°24'16"N Longitude: -1.7421 / 1°44'31"W OS Eastings: 416841 OS Northings: 501031 OS Grid: NZ168010 Mapcode National: GBR JK8H.NW Mapcode Global: WHC6D.6KP9 Plus Code: 9C6WC735+Q5 |
Near Miss
13 August 2020 (20:00*) - Man arrested on suspicion of starting fire at back of Langroyd Hall
13 August 2020 (20:00*) - Man arrested on suspicion of starting fire at back of Langroyd Hall
A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and creating a fire at an East Lancashire landmark. Colne and Nelson Police posted on their social media page about the incident at Langroyd Hall last night. Two fire engines and police attended the scene yesterday evening to extinguish the flames. It said: "Residents of Colne, you may have seen emergency services activity in and around Langroyd Hall, Colne this evening, and social media posts suggesting the hall had been set alight. We can confirm that there was a small fire at the rear of the site in a outbuilding, the hall itself has not been affected and remains intact. The fire was extinguished by our colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue. With regards to the fire itself, we believe that it is suspicious and as such your Local Policing Team have arrested a male on suspicion of arson. The male is now in custody awaiting interview regarding the incident."
Langroyd Hall is a Grade II listed building thought to date from 1605 (datestone) and was in the ownership of the Carr family for many generations. The building has been in use as a house, a maternity hospital, a pub and a restaurant. Langroyd Hall was bought by Colne Borough Council for use as a maternity home in 1939. In 1953 the hall was in private hands again and re-opened as a private club and restaurant. In 1982 it reopened by William Youngers Brewery with a restaurant and in 1993 after further alterations by the then owner Kevin Berkinsit once again became Langroyd Hall Hotel before, in the late 90s, becoming a Chef and Brewer Inn and restaurant, which closed in 2017. It is currently unoccupied, and its next future use is yet to be determined.
Last year, the current owners of the hall were prosecuted for unlawfully removing roof slates and stone lantern finial. Leicester-based EH Capital 1 Ltd pleaded guilty for unlawfully removing the items from Langroyd Hall in Colne in April 2019. When admitting to the offence in Burnley Magistrates' Court, a company director said it was done to protect the 17th century building from thieves and trespassers. The director said the slates were stored and numbered to ensure the roof could be replaced at a future date. EH Capital 1 Ltd did not seek permission from Pendle Council to do this work and the company admitted this was an error. It was fined £1,200 and ordered to pay the Council’s prosecution costs. The company apologised to the people of Colne and the council for this action.
A planning application was submitted in December last year by My Space Housing Solutions. The plan would see part of the hall demolished and four new units built to house 33 "extra care" apartments with cafe, gymnasium, hairdressers, and associated car parking.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
Langroyd Hall is a Grade II listed building thought to date from 1605 (datestone) and was in the ownership of the Carr family for many generations. The building has been in use as a house, a maternity hospital, a pub and a restaurant. Langroyd Hall was bought by Colne Borough Council for use as a maternity home in 1939. In 1953 the hall was in private hands again and re-opened as a private club and restaurant. In 1982 it reopened by William Youngers Brewery with a restaurant and in 1993 after further alterations by the then owner Kevin Berkinsit once again became Langroyd Hall Hotel before, in the late 90s, becoming a Chef and Brewer Inn and restaurant, which closed in 2017. It is currently unoccupied, and its next future use is yet to be determined.
Last year, the current owners of the hall were prosecuted for unlawfully removing roof slates and stone lantern finial. Leicester-based EH Capital 1 Ltd pleaded guilty for unlawfully removing the items from Langroyd Hall in Colne in April 2019. When admitting to the offence in Burnley Magistrates' Court, a company director said it was done to protect the 17th century building from thieves and trespassers. The director said the slates were stored and numbered to ensure the roof could be replaced at a future date. EH Capital 1 Ltd did not seek permission from Pendle Council to do this work and the company admitted this was an error. It was fined £1,200 and ordered to pay the Council’s prosecution costs. The company apologised to the people of Colne and the council for this action.
A planning application was submitted in December last year by My Space Housing Solutions. The plan would see part of the hall demolished and four new units built to house 33 "extra care" apartments with cafe, gymnasium, hairdressers, and associated car parking.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
Listing Details
Entry Name: Langroyd Hall
Listing Date: 29 January 1953 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1073380 English Heritage Legacy ID: 186241 Location: Colne, Pendle, Lancashire, BB8 County: Lancashire District: Pendle Civil Parish: Colne Built-Up Area: Colne Traditional County: Lancashire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Lancashire Church of England Parish: Foulridge St Michael and All Angels Church of England Diocese: Blackburn |
Coordinates
Latitude: 53.8664 / 53°51'58"N Longitude: -2.1692 / 2°10'9"W OS Eastings: 388970 OS Northings: 441140 OS Grid: SD889411 Mapcode National: GBR FR9Q.5R Mapcode Global: WHB7R.N27T Plus Code: 9C5VVR8J+G8 |
12 August 2020 (19:02) - Firefighters battle fire at shoe Repair shop in Pitsea parade
Fire crews were called to battle a fire at a shoe shop in a town shopping parade. The firefighters attended the incident at the cobblers in High Road, Pitsea at 7.02pm last night. Images from the scene showed the fire service had put up a cordon around the shops in the road for some time as the crews dealt with the blaze in the store. At least two fire crews were on the scene helping to deal with the incident, and smoke could be seen rising from the shop out of the businesses windows. Essex Fire Service bosses say crews finished at the scene at 8:30pm and the cause of the fire was recorded as accidental.
The fire was in part of the building known as Tudor Mansions and Tudor Chambers, a large mock-Tudor style building, built in the early 1930s and considered to be architecturally one of the most striking buildings in Pitsea.
News Source: Clacton Gazette
The fire was in part of the building known as Tudor Mansions and Tudor Chambers, a large mock-Tudor style building, built in the early 1930s and considered to be architecturally one of the most striking buildings in Pitsea.
News Source: Clacton Gazette
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
It was during the late 1920s and 1930s that the Broadway took on the appearance that is still architecturally the most striking feature of the shopping facilities at Pitsea. This was all due to the work of one man: Harold George Howard.
His legacy to Pitsea began in the late 1920s with a series of mock Tudor style buildings beginning with the Railway Hotel public house, and continuing with the cinema, which opened as The Broadway in 1929 and later became the Century, and the parade of shops adjoining it known as Tudor Mansions and Tudor Chambers, and lastly Tudor Buildings (Anne Boleyn Mansions), occupied by Lloyds (now Lloyds T.S.B.) Bank since the 1930s.
His name is perpetuated in the local park, where his privately funded war memorial now stands, and in Howard Crescent which borders the park and features his residential designed homes.
He was a noted landowner, farmer and successful businessman founding Howard's Dairies around 1900, which for many years had shops at Pitsea, Laindon, Langdon Hills, Whitmore Way, Timberlog Lane and Southernhay in Basildon town centre. The company's horse-drawn and later electrically powered milk floats finished in a dark blue and cream livery went on to become one of the leading milk delivery services in south east Essex. Howard's Dairies also had distribution depots at Tennyson Drive, Pitsea and Bluehouses, Basildon. At the time of his death in 1961 the company, which had its headquarters at 265 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, had a 73,000 customer base, 8 distribution depots, 212 retail delivery rounds, 33 shops and employed over 1000 people.
He lived for a time at Blue House Farm in London Road, and died 7th June 1961 aged 86 and is buried at St. Margaret's Church, Bowers Gifford.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
It was during the late 1920s and 1930s that the Broadway took on the appearance that is still architecturally the most striking feature of the shopping facilities at Pitsea. This was all due to the work of one man: Harold George Howard.
His legacy to Pitsea began in the late 1920s with a series of mock Tudor style buildings beginning with the Railway Hotel public house, and continuing with the cinema, which opened as The Broadway in 1929 and later became the Century, and the parade of shops adjoining it known as Tudor Mansions and Tudor Chambers, and lastly Tudor Buildings (Anne Boleyn Mansions), occupied by Lloyds (now Lloyds T.S.B.) Bank since the 1930s.
His name is perpetuated in the local park, where his privately funded war memorial now stands, and in Howard Crescent which borders the park and features his residential designed homes.
He was a noted landowner, farmer and successful businessman founding Howard's Dairies around 1900, which for many years had shops at Pitsea, Laindon, Langdon Hills, Whitmore Way, Timberlog Lane and Southernhay in Basildon town centre. The company's horse-drawn and later electrically powered milk floats finished in a dark blue and cream livery went on to become one of the leading milk delivery services in south east Essex. Howard's Dairies also had distribution depots at Tennyson Drive, Pitsea and Bluehouses, Basildon. At the time of his death in 1961 the company, which had its headquarters at 265 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, had a 73,000 customer base, 8 distribution depots, 212 retail delivery rounds, 33 shops and employed over 1000 people.
He lived for a time at Blue House Farm in London Road, and died 7th June 1961 aged 86 and is buried at St. Margaret's Church, Bowers Gifford.
11 August 2020 (20:51) - Fire Damages Roof at Michelin House's Bibendum restaurant in Chelsea
A fire that broke out at the Claude Bosi at Bibendum restaurant last night has destroyed part of the roof of the two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to the fire on Fulham Road in London's Chelsea. There were no reports of any injuries. The Brigade was called at 8.51pm and the fire was under control by 9.37pm. Fire crews from Chelsea, Fulham, Lambeth and Hammersmith fire stations were at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
A post by Bosi on Instagram suggested the fire had been started by a cigarette butt left in a flowerpot and said he had been alerted to the fire by a customer. Bosi, who won the Chef Award at the 2018 Cateys, added that the restaurant is still due to reopen on 5 September. The post said: "Thank you to the @chelseafirerescue for your amazing work and my best customer Arlet for saving the Michelin building! All good now and see you all from the 5 of September."
Diego Masciaga, who spent 30 years as general manager of the three-Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Bray, Berkshire, joined the restaurant as a front of house ambassador, which will see him take charge of service levels at the venue ahead of reopening. Bosi's downstairs oyster bar at the Bibendum building has already reopened. Bosi took over the iconic Michelin building and relaunched it in partnership with Sir Terence Conran as Claude Bosi at Bibendum in 2017. The building – called Michelin House – was commissioned by the Michelin Tyre Company as its British headquarters in 1909. It is now Grade II listed. Michelin moved out in 1985, when designer Conran and publisher Paul Hamlyn snapped it up.
News Source: The Caterer
A post by Bosi on Instagram suggested the fire had been started by a cigarette butt left in a flowerpot and said he had been alerted to the fire by a customer. Bosi, who won the Chef Award at the 2018 Cateys, added that the restaurant is still due to reopen on 5 September. The post said: "Thank you to the @chelseafirerescue for your amazing work and my best customer Arlet for saving the Michelin building! All good now and see you all from the 5 of September."
Diego Masciaga, who spent 30 years as general manager of the three-Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Bray, Berkshire, joined the restaurant as a front of house ambassador, which will see him take charge of service levels at the venue ahead of reopening. Bosi's downstairs oyster bar at the Bibendum building has already reopened. Bosi took over the iconic Michelin building and relaunched it in partnership with Sir Terence Conran as Claude Bosi at Bibendum in 2017. The building – called Michelin House – was commissioned by the Michelin Tyre Company as its British headquarters in 1909. It is now Grade II listed. Michelin moved out in 1985, when designer Conran and publisher Paul Hamlyn snapped it up.
News Source: The Caterer
Listing Details
Entry Name: Michelin House the Main Part Facing the Fulham Road
Listing Date: 15 April 1969 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1080656 English Heritage Legacy ID: 203794 Location: Kensington and Chelsea, London, SW3 County: London District: Kensington and Chelsea Electoral Ward/Division: Brompton & Hans Town Built-Up Area: Kensington and Chelsea Traditional County: Middlesex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Greater London Church of England Parish: St Luke and Christ Church Chelsea Church of England Diocese: London |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.4933 / 51°29'35"N Longitude: -0.1688 / 0°10'7"W OS Eastings: 527224 OS Northings: 178735 OS Grid: TQ272787 Mapcode National: GBR 6L.9W Mapcode Global: VHGQZ.1Q4M Plus Code: 9C3XFRVJ+8F |
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
This building at the corner of the Fulham Road and Sloane Avenue in Chelsea was once the UK headquarters of the Michelin tyre company. The building that today occupies an entire city block was built in stages behind the ornate original section on the Fulham Road end. What today is an oyster bar, once featured the fitting bays of the tyre company and an office that sold the famous Michelin maps. Over 30,000 tyres were stored in the basement of the building and brought up to the fitting bays using a lift and a purpose built sloped floor.
The building was one of the first in the UK to employ the ferro-concrete construction system developed by François Hennebique. This system was also employed in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the construction of a Co-op warehouse, now a Malmaison Hotel. Among the features of this construction system are the ability to create large open interior spaces free of supporting columns and, of particular importance in a tyre warehouse, fire-resistance.
The building’s designer was François Espinasse who was employed by Michelin as an engineer. He is also believed to have designed the company’s Paris Headquarters. The design of the building defies accurate classification. It has features of Art Nouveau but has hints of the Art Deco style that was to become popular in the years to come. Among the decorative features of the building are three large stained glass windows featuring Bibendum, the famous Michelin Man.
The windows that grace the building today though are replicas. The original windows were removed and moved to Michelin’s Stoke-on-Trent factory during WWII to protect them from the bombing. However, in the intervening years they went missing. Other decoration includes a series of attractive ceramic plaques featuring famous racing cars, ceramic tiles in the form of tyres, and, at the front of the building two pinnacles, in the form of stacked tyres, that are illuminated from within at night.
The front section of the building, now occupied by an oyster bar, was given a Grade II Listing in 1969. Over the years the front block was added to by extensions back towards Ixworth Place. Michelin moved their headquarters to Stoke-on-Trent in 1930 but continued to own the Fulham Road building until 1985 when they sold it to Sir Terrance Conran and Paul Hamlyn. Following the sale a number of changes were made to the building including the addition of a glass and steel structure in the former loading bay on Sloane Avenue. Today this is occupied by Conran’s furniture store. Another occupant of the building is the Bibendum restaurant.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
This building at the corner of the Fulham Road and Sloane Avenue in Chelsea was once the UK headquarters of the Michelin tyre company. The building that today occupies an entire city block was built in stages behind the ornate original section on the Fulham Road end. What today is an oyster bar, once featured the fitting bays of the tyre company and an office that sold the famous Michelin maps. Over 30,000 tyres were stored in the basement of the building and brought up to the fitting bays using a lift and a purpose built sloped floor.
The building was one of the first in the UK to employ the ferro-concrete construction system developed by François Hennebique. This system was also employed in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the construction of a Co-op warehouse, now a Malmaison Hotel. Among the features of this construction system are the ability to create large open interior spaces free of supporting columns and, of particular importance in a tyre warehouse, fire-resistance.
The building’s designer was François Espinasse who was employed by Michelin as an engineer. He is also believed to have designed the company’s Paris Headquarters. The design of the building defies accurate classification. It has features of Art Nouveau but has hints of the Art Deco style that was to become popular in the years to come. Among the decorative features of the building are three large stained glass windows featuring Bibendum, the famous Michelin Man.
The windows that grace the building today though are replicas. The original windows were removed and moved to Michelin’s Stoke-on-Trent factory during WWII to protect them from the bombing. However, in the intervening years they went missing. Other decoration includes a series of attractive ceramic plaques featuring famous racing cars, ceramic tiles in the form of tyres, and, at the front of the building two pinnacles, in the form of stacked tyres, that are illuminated from within at night.
The front section of the building, now occupied by an oyster bar, was given a Grade II Listing in 1969. Over the years the front block was added to by extensions back towards Ixworth Place. Michelin moved their headquarters to Stoke-on-Trent in 1930 but continued to own the Fulham Road building until 1985 when they sold it to Sir Terrance Conran and Paul Hamlyn. Following the sale a number of changes were made to the building including the addition of a glass and steel structure in the former loading bay on Sloane Avenue. Today this is occupied by Conran’s furniture store. Another occupant of the building is the Bibendum restaurant.
11 August 2020 (20:20) - Wetherspoon pubgoers evacuated from Plympton Stannary Court
Pubgoers were evacuated from a Plympton Wetherspoon pub yesterday evening. A 999 call was made to the fire service at around 8.20pm to reports of a fire in the kitchen area of the Grade II listed Stannary Court venue on the Ridgeway in Plympton. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it was called to the popular pub.
A fire spokesperson said: "We received a call at around 8.20pm on Tuesday to reports of a fire in a kitchen on the Ridgeway. "Two crews, one from Plympton and one from Greenbank attended. The fire was out of arrival and crews investigated the kitchen and ventilated it." Crews left the scene around half an hour later.
One man, who was enjoying a meal with his family, said he could "smell smoke" and then saw fire engines arrive. He said: "We had finished our mains and were waiting for desserts. The alarm went off and nobody really paid too much attention. It was a short wait until people started leaving. Then we could smell smoke and fire engines turned up. The kids thought it was great, until they were told they were not getting a dessert." Another person at the scene said they saw staff leaving from the back exits of the venue. The witness said: “I was walking past when I saw people being evacuated. There was cooking staff leaving from the fire exits at the back of the Wetherspoons and there were multiple fire engines in the area."
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We can confirm that there was a fire, on the cook line of the kitchen, at The Stannary Court (Plympton) yesterday evening. The fire service attended. The alarm was raised by the kitchen manager, who was working on the line at the time, and the pub was appropriately evacuated. The whole team followed their training to the letter and, thanks to their quick and effective actions, aided by the cooperation and prompt response of customers, the busy pub was evacuated in just under three minutes. No one was injured and there is no damage to the property.”
Plympton was an ancient stannary town. ‘Stannary’ derives from the Latin word for ‘tin’. The Stannary Court was held at Crocken Tor, on Dartmoor. Plympton sent 12 ‘jurates’ to the court which was first recorded in 1494 and held at irregular intervals until 1745. This Grade II listed building was built during 1840–66 as a large house. It was later divided into three properties. By 1985, one had long been Deeble’s electrical store. All three later became the job centre.
News Source: Plymouth Herald / Plymouth Live
A fire spokesperson said: "We received a call at around 8.20pm on Tuesday to reports of a fire in a kitchen on the Ridgeway. "Two crews, one from Plympton and one from Greenbank attended. The fire was out of arrival and crews investigated the kitchen and ventilated it." Crews left the scene around half an hour later.
One man, who was enjoying a meal with his family, said he could "smell smoke" and then saw fire engines arrive. He said: "We had finished our mains and were waiting for desserts. The alarm went off and nobody really paid too much attention. It was a short wait until people started leaving. Then we could smell smoke and fire engines turned up. The kids thought it was great, until they were told they were not getting a dessert." Another person at the scene said they saw staff leaving from the back exits of the venue. The witness said: “I was walking past when I saw people being evacuated. There was cooking staff leaving from the fire exits at the back of the Wetherspoons and there were multiple fire engines in the area."
Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We can confirm that there was a fire, on the cook line of the kitchen, at The Stannary Court (Plympton) yesterday evening. The fire service attended. The alarm was raised by the kitchen manager, who was working on the line at the time, and the pub was appropriately evacuated. The whole team followed their training to the letter and, thanks to their quick and effective actions, aided by the cooperation and prompt response of customers, the busy pub was evacuated in just under three minutes. No one was injured and there is no damage to the property.”
Plympton was an ancient stannary town. ‘Stannary’ derives from the Latin word for ‘tin’. The Stannary Court was held at Crocken Tor, on Dartmoor. Plympton sent 12 ‘jurates’ to the court which was first recorded in 1494 and held at irregular intervals until 1745. This Grade II listed building was built during 1840–66 as a large house. It was later divided into three properties. By 1985, one had long been Deeble’s electrical store. All three later became the job centre.
News Source: Plymouth Herald / Plymouth Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: 95, 97 and 99, Ridgeway
Listing Date: 9 November 1998 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1386352 English Heritage Legacy ID: 473737 Location: Plymouth, PL7 County: City of Plymouth Electoral Ward/Division: Plympton St Mary Parish: Non Civil Parish Built-Up Area: Plymouth Traditional County: Devon Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Devon |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.3879 / 50°23'16"N Longitude: -4.0517 / 4°3'6"W OS Eastings: 254244 OS Northings: 56232 OS Grid: SX542562 Mapcode National: GBR Q0.T33H Mapcode Global: FRA 28D0.PBR Plus Code: 9C2Q9WQX+48 |
11 August 2020 (21:36) - St Ives Edward Hain Hospital fire tackled overnight
Fire crews battled a blaze at a former hospital overnight. Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service was first called to the Edward Hain Hospital in St Ives shortly after 9.30pm on Tuesday. Fire engines from St Ives, Hayle and Tolvaddon were sent to the scene, along with a station manager from Penzance. They arrived to find smoke coming from the building and immeditely asked for more help at the scene. A spokesperson for the fire service said: "The fourth appliance was sent from St Ives. Due to the size of the incident an Incident Command Unit from St Just was mobilised, along with an Operational Support Unit and additional Wholetime Station Manager from Falmouth."
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were sent inside to fight the flames, while it was tackled with hoses from outside. The police were also called to the scene to help manage traffic on the A3047 and the ambulance service was informed, but there were no casualties so they did not need to attend. At 10.50pm two further fire appliances were requested, to make six at the scene, with the fire escalating. More firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were sent inside. The fire was out at 12.28am.
The spokesperson added: "An initial fire investigation has been carried out and the cause is likely to be accidental, possibly due to loose cables in a void. In addition to the large number of resources on scene, three additional on-call crews have been on standby providing fire cover in St Ives, Tolvaddon and Falmouth."
The Edward Hain Hospital opened in 1920 in a converted Victorian property known as Albany House.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were sent inside to fight the flames, while it was tackled with hoses from outside. The police were also called to the scene to help manage traffic on the A3047 and the ambulance service was informed, but there were no casualties so they did not need to attend. At 10.50pm two further fire appliances were requested, to make six at the scene, with the fire escalating. More firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were sent inside. The fire was out at 12.28am.
The spokesperson added: "An initial fire investigation has been carried out and the cause is likely to be accidental, possibly due to loose cables in a void. In addition to the large number of resources on scene, three additional on-call crews have been on standby providing fire cover in St Ives, Tolvaddon and Falmouth."
The Edward Hain Hospital opened in 1920 in a converted Victorian property known as Albany House.
News Source: Falmouth Packet
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
Sir Edward and Lady Hain commissioned the hospital as a memorial to their son, Captain Edward (Teddy) Hain of the Devon Yeomanry, who had been killed in the First World War at Gallipoli on the 11th November 1915 (aged 28). It was established by converting a large private Victorian property in Albany Terrace, known as Albany House and it opened on the 8th April 1920. It joined the National Health Service in 1948. It closed temporarily due to fire safety issues in 2016. According to Friends of Edward Hain Hospital, the claims were bogus and arose from an objection to the use of drag mats. The evacuation procedure in the past has included the use of a drag mat for bed-bound patients because it is impossible to get the beds through the ward doorways – the beds were assembled inside the rooms. The CPFT, who took over the provision of community services, say this method is unacceptable and unsafe for patients and staff. They have identified £900,000 of remedial works that will be needed to re-configure the building and install a sprinkler system.
On 2 January 2019 the hospital reopened as a winter pilot to provide a facility for local people who have recently been discharged from hospital in 2019. The future of the hospital will be decided by NHS bosses in October, however NHS Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group have already said the hospital was very likely never to see inpatients beds again.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
Sir Edward and Lady Hain commissioned the hospital as a memorial to their son, Captain Edward (Teddy) Hain of the Devon Yeomanry, who had been killed in the First World War at Gallipoli on the 11th November 1915 (aged 28). It was established by converting a large private Victorian property in Albany Terrace, known as Albany House and it opened on the 8th April 1920. It joined the National Health Service in 1948. It closed temporarily due to fire safety issues in 2016. According to Friends of Edward Hain Hospital, the claims were bogus and arose from an objection to the use of drag mats. The evacuation procedure in the past has included the use of a drag mat for bed-bound patients because it is impossible to get the beds through the ward doorways – the beds were assembled inside the rooms. The CPFT, who took over the provision of community services, say this method is unacceptable and unsafe for patients and staff. They have identified £900,000 of remedial works that will be needed to re-configure the building and install a sprinkler system.
On 2 January 2019 the hospital reopened as a winter pilot to provide a facility for local people who have recently been discharged from hospital in 2019. The future of the hospital will be decided by NHS bosses in October, however NHS Kernow Clinical Commissioning Group have already said the hospital was very likely never to see inpatients beds again.
10 August 2020 (19:00*) - Crews called to fire at Hull's derelict Lord Line building
Firefighters have been called out to the Lord Line building in Hull to put out a blaze. Smoke could be spotted billowing from the derelict structure on Monday, August 10 at around 7pm. A spokeswoman for Humberside Fire & Rescue Service confirmed that one fire engine was sent out to put out the "small fire" and that firefighters were there for around 40 minutes. It comes as plans to demolish Hull's longest-running derelict landmark were resubmitted last month.
The former Lord Line trawler company offices overlooking what used to be St Andrew's dock have been empty since the mid-1970s. An almost identical application to bulldoze the vandal-hit building and replace it with a new 40-apartment complex on the cleared site was refused by Hull City Council's planning committee last November. At the time, councillors voted unanimously to refuse the application by Manor Mill Resorts Ltd. The councillors supported their own planning officers who claimed the isolated site was not suitable for housing and criticised the quality of the proposed design. Some councillors also called on the company to consider selling the building to let someone else attempt to redevelop it instead.
Although the Lord Line is owned by Manor along with the dock's adjacent pump house and hydraulic tower, the surrounding land is under separate ownership. As yet, there has not been a co-ordinated attempt involving all the landowners to come up with a joint redevelopment scheme for the old dock, which was once home the world's largest deep-sea fishing fleet. Instead, Manor has submitted a series of applications for the Lord Line, including initial proposals to convert the building as part of a student campus which never got off the ground. Now the firm has resubmitted a similar application to last year's to build a four-storey residential scheme which includes ground floor parking. The main difference appears to be an increase in the number of proposed apartments from 40 to 42.
Opened in 1949, the Lord Line trawler company offices once served as the home of the world's largest deep-water fishing fleet. The building is Locally Listed and lies within the St Andrew’s Dock Conservation Area.
News Source: Hull Daily Mail / Hull Live
The former Lord Line trawler company offices overlooking what used to be St Andrew's dock have been empty since the mid-1970s. An almost identical application to bulldoze the vandal-hit building and replace it with a new 40-apartment complex on the cleared site was refused by Hull City Council's planning committee last November. At the time, councillors voted unanimously to refuse the application by Manor Mill Resorts Ltd. The councillors supported their own planning officers who claimed the isolated site was not suitable for housing and criticised the quality of the proposed design. Some councillors also called on the company to consider selling the building to let someone else attempt to redevelop it instead.
Although the Lord Line is owned by Manor along with the dock's adjacent pump house and hydraulic tower, the surrounding land is under separate ownership. As yet, there has not been a co-ordinated attempt involving all the landowners to come up with a joint redevelopment scheme for the old dock, which was once home the world's largest deep-sea fishing fleet. Instead, Manor has submitted a series of applications for the Lord Line, including initial proposals to convert the building as part of a student campus which never got off the ground. Now the firm has resubmitted a similar application to last year's to build a four-storey residential scheme which includes ground floor parking. The main difference appears to be an increase in the number of proposed apartments from 40 to 42.
Opened in 1949, the Lord Line trawler company offices once served as the home of the world's largest deep-water fishing fleet. The building is Locally Listed and lies within the St Andrew’s Dock Conservation Area.
News Source: Hull Daily Mail / Hull Live
10 August 2020 (11:25) - Police ask for help after deliberate fire set at town centre pub
Police in Strathaven are asking for help after a fire was deliberately set at a town centre pub. The fire at the Drumclog Inn on Todshill Street was said to be set around 11.25am on Monday of this week. Specialist officers are now investigating the matter and are asking for help from members of the public. A Police Scotland source said the fire was “small” but was still being taken seriously. Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101.
The building at 22-24 Todshill Street dates back to the late 18th /early 19th century. It appears to have become the Drumclog Inn around 1899. It sits within the Strathaven Conservation Area.
News Source: Daily Record
The building at 22-24 Todshill Street dates back to the late 18th /early 19th century. It appears to have become the Drumclog Inn around 1899. It sits within the Strathaven Conservation Area.
News Source: Daily Record
9 August 2020 (23:35) - Fire on Ha'Penny Pier, in Harwich
A pier fire could have been accidental or deliberate, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service says. Part of Harwich’s Ha’Penny Pier, one of the UK’s only surviving wooden, working piers, caught fire at about 11.35pm yesterday. The blaze is believed to have broken out at the corner of the outer arm of the 19th century structure. After spotting the flames, some youngsters are believed to have raised the alarm and called Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.
They also attempted to put out the fire with buckets of water while waiting for a fire engine to arrive at the scene. Tony O’Neill, from the Pharos Trust, which owns the LV18 lightship near the pier, said: “The quick actions of some young locals who called the fire brigade possibly saved a historic pier in Harwich. The wind had fanned the flames from a smouldering beam.” Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze by 12.07am. It is not yet known how the fire started, and has been recorded as accidental or deliberate by fire bosses.
Fiona Brunning, communication manager for Harwich Haven Authority, said: “We have commenced an investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and is reviewing CCTV footage from cameras located across the pier. No structural damage to the pier has been caused by the fire. We give our thanks to both members of the public and Essex Fire and Rescue for their quick attendance at the fire.”
The name originates from the half an old penny toll that was charged for using the pier. Ms Brunning added: “Ha’penny Pier is an iconic landmark in Harwich and remains one of the only surviving working, wooden pier in the UK. It was built in 1852 as a departure point for passengers boarding paddle steamers.”
The Visitor Centre, (formerly the ticket office), is Grade II listed.
News Source: Daily Gazette
They also attempted to put out the fire with buckets of water while waiting for a fire engine to arrive at the scene. Tony O’Neill, from the Pharos Trust, which owns the LV18 lightship near the pier, said: “The quick actions of some young locals who called the fire brigade possibly saved a historic pier in Harwich. The wind had fanned the flames from a smouldering beam.” Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze by 12.07am. It is not yet known how the fire started, and has been recorded as accidental or deliberate by fire bosses.
Fiona Brunning, communication manager for Harwich Haven Authority, said: “We have commenced an investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and is reviewing CCTV footage from cameras located across the pier. No structural damage to the pier has been caused by the fire. We give our thanks to both members of the public and Essex Fire and Rescue for their quick attendance at the fire.”
The name originates from the half an old penny toll that was charged for using the pier. Ms Brunning added: “Ha’penny Pier is an iconic landmark in Harwich and remains one of the only surviving working, wooden pier in the UK. It was built in 1852 as a departure point for passengers boarding paddle steamers.”
The Visitor Centre, (formerly the ticket office), is Grade II listed.
News Source: Daily Gazette
Listing Details
Entry Name: Premises of Orwell and Harwich Navigation Company
Listing Date: 20 June 1972 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1298465 English Heritage Legacy ID: 366624 Location: Harwich, Tendring, Essex, CO12 County: Essex District: Tendring Civil Parish: Harwich Built-Up Area: Harwich Traditional County: Essex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Essex |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.9481 / 51°56'53"N Longitude: 1.2862 / 1°17'10"E OS Eastings: 625934 OS Northings: 232837 OS Grid: TM259328 Mapcode National: GBR VQK.VBL Mapcode Global: VHLCG.79TF Plus Code: 9F33W7XP+6F |
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection / National Piers Society)
Work began on this pier in 1852 and it was opened on the 2nd of July 1853. It was so called because of the ½d toll charged (like a platform ticket). Originally the pier was twice as long as the present one but one half burnt down in 1927. It was a popular departure point for paddle steamers until after the First World War.
The Pier Ticket Office is charming, typical example of late 19th century architecture. It previously had two storeys, but was without the bell cage. The ticket office now houses the Ha’penny Pier Visitor Centre (an information office for Old Harwich run by the Harwich Society). The Visitor Centre is open daily from May 1st until the 2nd weekend in September. It also houses the ‘Harwich and the New World’ exhibition which has free admission and gives information on links with early voyages of exploration including Jamestown and Christopher Newport and the Mayflower and Christopher Jones.
The area of water enclosed by the arm of the pier is known as the Pound. Berthed here is the remnant of the once great 19th century fishing fleet. The pier also accommodates a café and a seafood kiosk as well as shower facilities for visiting yacht crews. Harwich Quay is a great favourite as an observation point for visitors to obtain a close-up view of the many vessels moving in and through the estuary.
These vessels range in size from canoes and yachts to the vast container ships, which can be seen using the port of Felixstowe on the opposite side of the harbour and the magnificent cruise ships that use Harwich International Cruise Terminal as well as ferries which run regular services to Holland and Belgium. A foot ferry operates between Harwich, Shotley and Felixstowe during the summer months. Inside is an exhibition on Harwich and The New World, featuring Christopher Newport and Jamestown 1607 and Christopher Jones and the Mayflower 1620.
November 2016 – Renovation work on Harwich Ha’penny Pier underway
November 2016 saw the renovation work funded by Harwich Haven Authority underway. The repairs were needed primarily to replace work from the late 1920s after part of the pier burnt down.
October 2017 – Harwich’s Ha’Penny Pier reaches final stage of £340,000 refurbishment
October 2017 saw completion of phase two of the £340,000 project approaching. This would see worn wooden beams and piles replaced at the pier, which is one of only two remaining working timber piers in the country.
November 2017 – Refurbishment work at Harwich Ha’penny Pier continues
Harwich Haven Authority removed the Ha’penny Pier’s innermost pontoon, positioned under the gangway, as part of investment into the Haven. This was the last of three sections to be refurbished at the pier, as the other two pontoons had been revamped in the previous few years.
Read More
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection / National Piers Society)
Work began on this pier in 1852 and it was opened on the 2nd of July 1853. It was so called because of the ½d toll charged (like a platform ticket). Originally the pier was twice as long as the present one but one half burnt down in 1927. It was a popular departure point for paddle steamers until after the First World War.
The Pier Ticket Office is charming, typical example of late 19th century architecture. It previously had two storeys, but was without the bell cage. The ticket office now houses the Ha’penny Pier Visitor Centre (an information office for Old Harwich run by the Harwich Society). The Visitor Centre is open daily from May 1st until the 2nd weekend in September. It also houses the ‘Harwich and the New World’ exhibition which has free admission and gives information on links with early voyages of exploration including Jamestown and Christopher Newport and the Mayflower and Christopher Jones.
The area of water enclosed by the arm of the pier is known as the Pound. Berthed here is the remnant of the once great 19th century fishing fleet. The pier also accommodates a café and a seafood kiosk as well as shower facilities for visiting yacht crews. Harwich Quay is a great favourite as an observation point for visitors to obtain a close-up view of the many vessels moving in and through the estuary.
These vessels range in size from canoes and yachts to the vast container ships, which can be seen using the port of Felixstowe on the opposite side of the harbour and the magnificent cruise ships that use Harwich International Cruise Terminal as well as ferries which run regular services to Holland and Belgium. A foot ferry operates between Harwich, Shotley and Felixstowe during the summer months. Inside is an exhibition on Harwich and The New World, featuring Christopher Newport and Jamestown 1607 and Christopher Jones and the Mayflower 1620.
November 2016 – Renovation work on Harwich Ha’penny Pier underway
November 2016 saw the renovation work funded by Harwich Haven Authority underway. The repairs were needed primarily to replace work from the late 1920s after part of the pier burnt down.
October 2017 – Harwich’s Ha’Penny Pier reaches final stage of £340,000 refurbishment
October 2017 saw completion of phase two of the £340,000 project approaching. This would see worn wooden beams and piles replaced at the pier, which is one of only two remaining working timber piers in the country.
November 2017 – Refurbishment work at Harwich Ha’penny Pier continues
Harwich Haven Authority removed the Ha’penny Pier’s innermost pontoon, positioned under the gangway, as part of investment into the Haven. This was the last of three sections to be refurbished at the pier, as the other two pontoons had been revamped in the previous few years.
Read More
9 August 2020 (21:14) - Fire at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
Firefighters tackled a “blaze” at Weymouth's Pleasure Pier last night. A crew of fire fighters rushed to the scene at around 9.14pm after being called to a fire at the popular sunbathing and fishing spot - which had been packed with crowds enjoying the sunshine just a few hours earlier. Crews found a timber post alight upon their arrival.
A spokesman for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "While Weymouth wholetime firefighters were covering Dorchester on standby, Weymouth on-call firefighters were called to a small fire in the open on the Pleasure Pier. "On arrival there were visible embers burning within a single timber post, which crews extinguished using one hose reel jet."
Weymouth's historic, but battered, Pleasure Pier (also known as Commercial Pier and originally 'Pile Pier') has a history as both a pleasure pier and a commercial pier. It is thought to have been first
built in around 1812.
News Source: Dorset Echo
A spokesman for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "While Weymouth wholetime firefighters were covering Dorchester on standby, Weymouth on-call firefighters were called to a small fire in the open on the Pleasure Pier. "On arrival there were visible embers burning within a single timber post, which crews extinguished using one hose reel jet."
Weymouth's historic, but battered, Pleasure Pier (also known as Commercial Pier and originally 'Pile Pier') has a history as both a pleasure pier and a commercial pier. It is thought to have been first
built in around 1812.
News Source: Dorset Echo
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection / National Piers Society)
The origin of this pier reportedly dates back to 1812 although, in 1840, a piled structure had been built on the harbour’s north side as an extension of Weymouth Esplanade. It was rebuilt/extended during 1859/60, with a cargo stage added in 1877 to facilitate the landing of Channel Island potatoes. A new passenger landing stage/baggage hall was built for the Great Western Railway in 1888/9. A Pavilion Theatre was constructed in 1908.
Harbour work in the early 1930s resulted in a new 1300 foot concrete pier replacing the earlier 600 foot structure. This pier was opened on July 13th 1933 by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII.
The aforementioned Pavilion Theatre was burnt down in 1954 and replaced by a second Pavilion Theatre which opened in 1961. Land adjacent to the pier was reclaimed to provide car parking and facilities for the theatre and, from 1973, the roll-on/roll-off cross-Channel car ferries. A large area of land was reclaimed in 1978 to further extend the ferry terminal. This work was completed in 1980.
Ferries to the Channel Islands and France recommenced in 1998 after a short break. The Alexandra Garden Theatre, rebuilt after being damaged by fire in 1993, now provides an amusement outlet on the pier forecourt. There is also angling from the pier.
Discussions had been underway for some time about redeveloping the Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth Pier and ferry terminal in time for the Olympic Games in 2012 but in September 2009, these plans were scrapped.
However, plans for a 53 metre high observation tower were agreed and in November 2011, the first pictures of the tower’s observation pod, with its floor-to-ceiling polycarbonate windows, were published. Contractors also began the ground preparation works for the tower which will carry 70 passengers at a time. The official ground breaking for the tower was carried out in early December 2011 with special guests, the Olympic sailing contenders, Annie Lush and Lucy and Kate Macgregor, and the first stage of the tower was installed in February 2012. The £3.5m seafront viewing tower opened to the public in June 2012. But in January 2013, fears were expressed over the future of the Pleasure Pier.
January 2016 – Repair works to start at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
In January 2016, work commenced on concrete repairs to the sub structure of the pier. The work was expected to last for six weeks, during which time the pier and pedestrian approach would need to be closed for engineer access only. The work was not anticipated to affect the car park, or visitors to the Jurassic Skyline.
November 2016 – Weymouth’s Jurassic Skyline Tower closes for winter
In November 2016, the operators of the viewing tower, situated on the Pleasure Pier, announced that due to a ‘changing tourism landscape’ the pier would be closing for the winter period.
January 2019 – Weymouth Pleasure Pier cafe to be demolished next month
It was hoped to start demolition work at the beginning of February and a new kiosk be built on the pier. Demolition and other costs had been put at £35,000, money which would be taken from the pier’s reserves account.
Read More
March 2019 – Demolition underway at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
Demolition work began with buildings being pulled down above deck level to make it safer and to carry out work to strengthen the weather-beaten pier.
Read More
July 2019 – Plans for new catering facility at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
A catering kiosk and decked seating area with a sail cover could be built on the Weymouth Pleasure Pier. The site was cleared in previous months with the demolition of a former café building with repairs also made to the pier structure.
Read More
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection / National Piers Society)
The origin of this pier reportedly dates back to 1812 although, in 1840, a piled structure had been built on the harbour’s north side as an extension of Weymouth Esplanade. It was rebuilt/extended during 1859/60, with a cargo stage added in 1877 to facilitate the landing of Channel Island potatoes. A new passenger landing stage/baggage hall was built for the Great Western Railway in 1888/9. A Pavilion Theatre was constructed in 1908.
Harbour work in the early 1930s resulted in a new 1300 foot concrete pier replacing the earlier 600 foot structure. This pier was opened on July 13th 1933 by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII.
The aforementioned Pavilion Theatre was burnt down in 1954 and replaced by a second Pavilion Theatre which opened in 1961. Land adjacent to the pier was reclaimed to provide car parking and facilities for the theatre and, from 1973, the roll-on/roll-off cross-Channel car ferries. A large area of land was reclaimed in 1978 to further extend the ferry terminal. This work was completed in 1980.
Ferries to the Channel Islands and France recommenced in 1998 after a short break. The Alexandra Garden Theatre, rebuilt after being damaged by fire in 1993, now provides an amusement outlet on the pier forecourt. There is also angling from the pier.
Discussions had been underway for some time about redeveloping the Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth Pier and ferry terminal in time for the Olympic Games in 2012 but in September 2009, these plans were scrapped.
However, plans for a 53 metre high observation tower were agreed and in November 2011, the first pictures of the tower’s observation pod, with its floor-to-ceiling polycarbonate windows, were published. Contractors also began the ground preparation works for the tower which will carry 70 passengers at a time. The official ground breaking for the tower was carried out in early December 2011 with special guests, the Olympic sailing contenders, Annie Lush and Lucy and Kate Macgregor, and the first stage of the tower was installed in February 2012. The £3.5m seafront viewing tower opened to the public in June 2012. But in January 2013, fears were expressed over the future of the Pleasure Pier.
January 2016 – Repair works to start at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
In January 2016, work commenced on concrete repairs to the sub structure of the pier. The work was expected to last for six weeks, during which time the pier and pedestrian approach would need to be closed for engineer access only. The work was not anticipated to affect the car park, or visitors to the Jurassic Skyline.
November 2016 – Weymouth’s Jurassic Skyline Tower closes for winter
In November 2016, the operators of the viewing tower, situated on the Pleasure Pier, announced that due to a ‘changing tourism landscape’ the pier would be closing for the winter period.
January 2019 – Weymouth Pleasure Pier cafe to be demolished next month
It was hoped to start demolition work at the beginning of February and a new kiosk be built on the pier. Demolition and other costs had been put at £35,000, money which would be taken from the pier’s reserves account.
Read More
March 2019 – Demolition underway at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
Demolition work began with buildings being pulled down above deck level to make it safer and to carry out work to strengthen the weather-beaten pier.
Read More
July 2019 – Plans for new catering facility at Weymouth Pleasure Pier
A catering kiosk and decked seating area with a sail cover could be built on the Weymouth Pleasure Pier. The site was cleared in previous months with the demolition of a former café building with repairs also made to the pier structure.
Read More
9 August 2020 (05:55*) - Reaction after 'two fires' at Pirbright pub Cricketers on The Green
Louise Crouch, who lives in Pirbright, was near the Cricketers on The Green pub this morning and spotted several fire vehicles and firefighters outside the premises. Louise understands that the firefighters left the scene around 2am this morning after dealing with the first blaze, (see incident below), but returned just before 6am to find the fire had "reignited". The fire appears to have affected the roof significantly.
The fires come at an already challenging time for those in the hospitality industry. The Cricketers on The Green had reopened its pub to customers on July 4, as lockdown was eased. But owners Jason and Shara Myers are staying positive and say the fires are simply "another test". Mr Myers said: “Shara and I are resilient, we're business owners and we have 40 colleagues that rely on us here and we have a whole community - that adore this pub - to serve. We'll be back up and running, we are resilient. We will bounce back as we have a community to look after.”
Pub owner Jason Myers has told SurreyLive all staff members and guests were able to safely leave the premises following last night's fire. He reports the blaze has worst affected the more modern part of the building, where the pub had been extended. According to Mr Myers, there were two fires. An initial one broke out at the end of service at around 10.10pm on Saturday, and a second this morning at around 6am. The second fire was more severe and has caused significant damage to the roof of the extension which was installed between February and December 2019. Mr Myers said: "Of course, the fire is a devastating thing to watch. I know every brick in this building, every piece of the roof, I was part of the whole process so it is hard to watch it burn. You know when it is burning the damage can be repaired, but not without extensive work. Of course, that is a bit soul-destroying but not enough to curb our resilience and enthusiasm as we bounce back. We'll be alright." At around 10am on Sunday, fire crews were reportedly leaving the scene. Investigations are now ongoing to find out the cause of the fire and determine how the second blaze started.
Formerly known as The Cricketers, the pub is Grade II listed and dates from the 16th century at the rear, with an 18th century frontage.
News Source: Get Surrey / Surrey Live
The fires come at an already challenging time for those in the hospitality industry. The Cricketers on The Green had reopened its pub to customers on July 4, as lockdown was eased. But owners Jason and Shara Myers are staying positive and say the fires are simply "another test". Mr Myers said: “Shara and I are resilient, we're business owners and we have 40 colleagues that rely on us here and we have a whole community - that adore this pub - to serve. We'll be back up and running, we are resilient. We will bounce back as we have a community to look after.”
Pub owner Jason Myers has told SurreyLive all staff members and guests were able to safely leave the premises following last night's fire. He reports the blaze has worst affected the more modern part of the building, where the pub had been extended. According to Mr Myers, there were two fires. An initial one broke out at the end of service at around 10.10pm on Saturday, and a second this morning at around 6am. The second fire was more severe and has caused significant damage to the roof of the extension which was installed between February and December 2019. Mr Myers said: "Of course, the fire is a devastating thing to watch. I know every brick in this building, every piece of the roof, I was part of the whole process so it is hard to watch it burn. You know when it is burning the damage can be repaired, but not without extensive work. Of course, that is a bit soul-destroying but not enough to curb our resilience and enthusiasm as we bounce back. We'll be alright." At around 10am on Sunday, fire crews were reportedly leaving the scene. Investigations are now ongoing to find out the cause of the fire and determine how the second blaze started.
Formerly known as The Cricketers, the pub is Grade II listed and dates from the 16th century at the rear, with an 18th century frontage.
News Source: Get Surrey / Surrey Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: The Cricketers Public House
Listing Date: 13 December 1984 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1377716 English Heritage Legacy ID: 288112 Location: Pirbright, Guildford, Surrey, GU24 County: Surrey District: Guildford Civil Parish: Pirbright Built-Up Area: Pirbright Traditional County: Surrey Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Surrey Church of England Parish: Pirbright Church of England Diocese: Guildford |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.2945 / 51°17'40"N Longitude: -0.6425 / 0°38'32"W OS Eastings: 494750 OS Northings: 155916 OS Grid: SU947559 Mapcode National: GBR FBP.SG6 Mapcode Global: VHFV6.TQ6H Plus Code: 9C3X79V5+R2 |
Near Miss
9 August 2020 (04:30*) - Firefighters attend blaze in Bolsover pub’s smoking area
9 August 2020 (04:30*) - Firefighters attend blaze in Bolsover pub’s smoking area
The incident took place at around 4.30am this morning (Sunday, August 9) at a pub on Market Place in Bolsover. Firefighters from Bolsover and Staveley attended the small blaze which was located in the smoking area at the rear of the public house. The occupiers were given advice and the fire service left the scene shortly afterwards.
The Anchor Inn on Market Place has existed since at least 1835, which is the date of the earliest written record of the building.
News Source: Derbyshire Times
The Anchor Inn on Market Place has existed since at least 1835, which is the date of the earliest written record of the building.
News Source: Derbyshire Times
8 August 2020 (22:10) - Firefighters tackle Cricketers on The Green pub blaze in Pirbright
Fire crews are on the scene at the Cricketers on The Green as a blaze took hold of the pub. The fire broke out earlier tonight, with eyewitnesses saying flames were shooting through the roof shortly after the fire started. The pub was said to be busy when it happened, but everyone got out safely.
Smoke can be seen billowing out from the roof in part of the pub. It isn't yet known how many firefighters were needed. The eyewitness said his friend went inside to use the bathroom and heard fire extinguishers being used. He said: "I was sat on the green with a group of friends when one of them went to use the toilet and got inside and heard fire extinguishers being used. Everyone was asked to evacuate. The fire service was called and 3 appliances arrived within ten minutes. We could see smoke billowing from the roof of the pub. Within ten to fifteen minutes after, flames could be seen escaping from the roof area. Not sure what damage has been done."
The pub has recently undergone a refurb and reopened on 20th December 2019 after having been closed since July 2018. It has only recently reopened post-lockdown. Formerly known as The Cricketers, the pub is Grade II listed and dates from the 16th century at the rear, with an 18th century frontage.
News Source: Get Surrey / Surrey Live
Smoke can be seen billowing out from the roof in part of the pub. It isn't yet known how many firefighters were needed. The eyewitness said his friend went inside to use the bathroom and heard fire extinguishers being used. He said: "I was sat on the green with a group of friends when one of them went to use the toilet and got inside and heard fire extinguishers being used. Everyone was asked to evacuate. The fire service was called and 3 appliances arrived within ten minutes. We could see smoke billowing from the roof of the pub. Within ten to fifteen minutes after, flames could be seen escaping from the roof area. Not sure what damage has been done."
The pub has recently undergone a refurb and reopened on 20th December 2019 after having been closed since July 2018. It has only recently reopened post-lockdown. Formerly known as The Cricketers, the pub is Grade II listed and dates from the 16th century at the rear, with an 18th century frontage.
News Source: Get Surrey / Surrey Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: The Cricketers Public House
Listing Date: 13 December 1984 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1377716 English Heritage Legacy ID: 288112 Location: Pirbright, Guildford, Surrey, GU24 County: Surrey District: Guildford Civil Parish: Pirbright Built-Up Area: Pirbright Traditional County: Surrey Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Surrey Church of England Parish: Pirbright Church of England Diocese: Guildford |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.2945 / 51°17'40"N Longitude: -0.6425 / 0°38'32"W OS Eastings: 494750 OS Northings: 155916 OS Grid: SU947559 Mapcode National: GBR FBP.SG6 Mapcode Global: VHFV6.TQ6H Plus Code: 9C3X79V5+R2 |
Near Miss
8 August 2020 (21:15) - Fire crews rush to huge blaze on residential street in Dover
8 August 2020 (21:15) - Fire crews rush to huge blaze on residential street in Dover
Emergency services rushed to the scene of a fire in Dover this evening (August 8). Police and fire were in attendance following the incident on Folkestone Road. Images from the blaze show huge flames and large plumes of smoke billowing into the air. A number of people appeared to have gathered on the scene. Reports the fire started in some bins outside a property have not been confirmed.
Crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service reportedly arrived on the scene within “minutes” and dealt with the blaze rapidly. Eyewitness James Nesbitt called 999 when he saw what he believed was a bonfire at the front of the property. He said, “My friends and I were walking down the road and saw what we thought was a bonfire in the driveway before realising it was out of control, affecting the bins, fence and car on the other side of the fence. This is when the fire service arrived to put out the flames. Very dramatic to see residents of the two properties run out of the buildings but hope that all are okay. [Firefighters] arrived within three minutes of me calling them and had the flames reduced almost immediately. There was a panicky moment as we heard a bang as a result of the fire, we think it was a car as it was on fire. Couldn’t fault the fire service at all, their management of the fire and traffic was brilliant.”
A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said, “Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a rubbish fire on Folkestone Road in Dover. Two fire engines were sent to the scene and crews arrived to a large pile of rubbish alight outside of a domestic property. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a main jet and water from a local hydrant to tackle the blaze. No casualties were reported and the cause is not yet known.
The fire was adjacent to large building, once known as Winchilsea Crescent, now 120 – 126 Folkestone Road. It is uncertain when the property was built but it appeared on the 1851 census.
News Source: Kent Live
Crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service reportedly arrived on the scene within “minutes” and dealt with the blaze rapidly. Eyewitness James Nesbitt called 999 when he saw what he believed was a bonfire at the front of the property. He said, “My friends and I were walking down the road and saw what we thought was a bonfire in the driveway before realising it was out of control, affecting the bins, fence and car on the other side of the fence. This is when the fire service arrived to put out the flames. Very dramatic to see residents of the two properties run out of the buildings but hope that all are okay. [Firefighters] arrived within three minutes of me calling them and had the flames reduced almost immediately. There was a panicky moment as we heard a bang as a result of the fire, we think it was a car as it was on fire. Couldn’t fault the fire service at all, their management of the fire and traffic was brilliant.”
A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said, “Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a rubbish fire on Folkestone Road in Dover. Two fire engines were sent to the scene and crews arrived to a large pile of rubbish alight outside of a domestic property. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a main jet and water from a local hydrant to tackle the blaze. No casualties were reported and the cause is not yet known.
The fire was adjacent to large building, once known as Winchilsea Crescent, now 120 – 126 Folkestone Road. It is uncertain when the property was built but it appeared on the 1851 census.
News Source: Kent Live
8 August 2020 (16:01) - Fire rips through block of flats in Bournemouth and roof collapses
A huge fire is ripping through a block of flats in Bournemouth today, with footage from the scene showing flames leaping from the roof before collapsing inwards. Firefighters are currently battling the blaze, which broke out in a third floor flat this afternoon, forcing residents to evacuate. Black smoke could also be seen rising from the building on Holdenhurst Road in the seaside town. The road is expected to be closed off for some time.
The fire has reportedly been raging for more than five hours, with witnesses saying that it has now spread further across the roof of the building. Rescue services, which have been stretched today as thousands of people descended on the south coast, have confirmed that no one was hurt in the fire. Fire crews from Westbourne, Ferndown, Wimborne, Verwood, Poole, Wareham, Redhill, Ringwood, New Milton and Lymington have been at the scene.
A spokesperson for the fire service said that they had called for 12 pumps to be at the scene to allow for a supply of breathing apparatus, to ensure crews could rotate in the hot conditions. “Holdenhurst Road in Bournemouth is full of fire appliances as crews deal with a flat fire,” Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service posted on Twitter. “Everyone's safe but there are road closures in place, so avoid going in and out of Bournemouth by the Asda roundabout!”
The call came into the emergency services at 4.01pm, after which police urged people to avoid the area until it is reopened. Jean-Luc Carden, who lives near the scene of the incident, said: “I went outside for a cigarette about 30 minutes ago and saw all the smoke billowing from the flats on top of the building. Half of the roof has now caved in and there are still flames at the back of the building.” He added: “I have been at the top of my building for about 30 minutes now and it looks like it got worse in that time worse. The road is completely shut from the job centre to the actual building (where the fire is).” Another witness on Twitter said that at least half of the roof had fallen in, and that they could see inside the building from their position.
Dorset Police wrote in a statement: “Officers are at the scene to assist the fire service with road closures and to help evacuate nearby properties. There are no reports of any injuries or people trapped.” The fire comes as Bournemouth beach was put on red alert as tourists flocked to the coast during the current heatwave being experienced across much of the UK. Red alert means that authorities believe maintaining social distancing - to reduce the risk of coronavirus spreading - is impossible, and that the area is unsafe for people.
This grand building with its imposing frontage of four pairs of Doric columns, was originally the National Provincial Bank, which was built around 1930.
News Source: Daily Mail
The fire has reportedly been raging for more than five hours, with witnesses saying that it has now spread further across the roof of the building. Rescue services, which have been stretched today as thousands of people descended on the south coast, have confirmed that no one was hurt in the fire. Fire crews from Westbourne, Ferndown, Wimborne, Verwood, Poole, Wareham, Redhill, Ringwood, New Milton and Lymington have been at the scene.
A spokesperson for the fire service said that they had called for 12 pumps to be at the scene to allow for a supply of breathing apparatus, to ensure crews could rotate in the hot conditions. “Holdenhurst Road in Bournemouth is full of fire appliances as crews deal with a flat fire,” Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service posted on Twitter. “Everyone's safe but there are road closures in place, so avoid going in and out of Bournemouth by the Asda roundabout!”
The call came into the emergency services at 4.01pm, after which police urged people to avoid the area until it is reopened. Jean-Luc Carden, who lives near the scene of the incident, said: “I went outside for a cigarette about 30 minutes ago and saw all the smoke billowing from the flats on top of the building. Half of the roof has now caved in and there are still flames at the back of the building.” He added: “I have been at the top of my building for about 30 minutes now and it looks like it got worse in that time worse. The road is completely shut from the job centre to the actual building (where the fire is).” Another witness on Twitter said that at least half of the roof had fallen in, and that they could see inside the building from their position.
Dorset Police wrote in a statement: “Officers are at the scene to assist the fire service with road closures and to help evacuate nearby properties. There are no reports of any injuries or people trapped.” The fire comes as Bournemouth beach was put on red alert as tourists flocked to the coast during the current heatwave being experienced across much of the UK. Red alert means that authorities believe maintaining social distancing - to reduce the risk of coronavirus spreading - is impossible, and that the area is unsafe for people.
This grand building with its imposing frontage of four pairs of Doric columns, was originally the National Provincial Bank, which was built around 1930.
News Source: Daily Mail
7 August 2020 (17:38) - Firefighters tackle blaze at Historic Welsh Oak pub in Pontymister
Firefighters are attending a blaze at a former pub in Pontymister. Crews were called out to the Welsh Oak, on Newport Road, just after 5.30pm. "We are still in attendance," said a South Wales Fire Service spokeswoman. "We were called out at 5.38pm. We have multiple crews there at the moment [6.30pm]." The fire has caused delays for traffic using the B4591, after the road was closed earlier this evening. Crews from Aberbargoed, Risca, Cwmbran, Malpas, Maindee and Dyffryn attended the scene and extinguished the fire by 6.50pm. The suspected cause is believed to be deliberate."
Planning permission was submitted in February for the former pub to be converted into housing. However, this was rejected by Caerphilly County Borough Council in June on the grounds that the proposal would be "to the detriment of visual amenity" in the area, as well noise concerns from the nearby Risca Road and an inadequate parking layout.
The Welsh Oak's is an 18th century inn and its claim to fame is that on Monday, the 4th November 1839 it was the rendezvous for the three columns of armed Chartists led by John Frost, Zephaniah Williams and William Jones prior to their ill fated march on Newport to instigate a national rebellion, which foundered on the muskets of the thirty infantrymen holding the Westgate Hotel in Newport. The battle of the Westgate had lasted about 25 minutes, 22 Chartists lay dead or dying and upwards of 50 had been injured.
The three leaders were captured and indicted for high treason. Despite the misgivings of the judge, they were convicted and would have been executed. The judge himself intervened on their behalf with the Home Secretary, and in the end the three condemned men had their sentences commuted and were transported to Australia. In March 1854 they were pardoned conditionally, and in 1855 unconditionally. William Jones and Zephaniah Williams remained in Australia. John Frost returned to a hero’s welcome. He died at Stapleton in Bristol on 28 July 1887, aged 93 years.
News Source: South Wales Argus
Planning permission was submitted in February for the former pub to be converted into housing. However, this was rejected by Caerphilly County Borough Council in June on the grounds that the proposal would be "to the detriment of visual amenity" in the area, as well noise concerns from the nearby Risca Road and an inadequate parking layout.
The Welsh Oak's is an 18th century inn and its claim to fame is that on Monday, the 4th November 1839 it was the rendezvous for the three columns of armed Chartists led by John Frost, Zephaniah Williams and William Jones prior to their ill fated march on Newport to instigate a national rebellion, which foundered on the muskets of the thirty infantrymen holding the Westgate Hotel in Newport. The battle of the Westgate had lasted about 25 minutes, 22 Chartists lay dead or dying and upwards of 50 had been injured.
The three leaders were captured and indicted for high treason. Despite the misgivings of the judge, they were convicted and would have been executed. The judge himself intervened on their behalf with the Home Secretary, and in the end the three condemned men had their sentences commuted and were transported to Australia. In March 1854 they were pardoned conditionally, and in 1855 unconditionally. William Jones and Zephaniah Williams remained in Australia. John Frost returned to a hero’s welcome. He died at Stapleton in Bristol on 28 July 1887, aged 93 years.
News Source: South Wales Argus
7 August 2020 (14:16) - Ten fire engines tackle blaze in Darwen
Residents are being told to keep their windows and doors shut as fire crews tackle a huge blaze in Darwen. At 2.16pm on Friday, 10 fire engines, including two from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, plus the aerial ladder platform, attended Kay Street in the town following reports that a large industrial unit was on fire. Thick black smoke could be seen billowing from the unit, and is visible from Darwen Market Square. Fire service personnel are asking people in the immediate vicinity to stay indoors. Images from residents and people in the area show the smoke plume, which can be seen for miles. It is thought the premise on fire is Forshaws Motorcycles, although this has not yet been confirmed by the fire service.
A spokesperson for the fire service said: "We currently have a large fire at a commercial premises in Darwen. The building is approximately 75m by 30m and two storeys. Firefighters from both Lancashire and Greater Manchester are in attendance and more resources are on the way. The fire is thought to involve the building and some motorcycle parts which are well alight. Currently we have four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, one hose reel in use and one jet. There's a large smoke plume in the area and local residents nearby are advised to close any windows and doors as a precaution." As of 3.20pm, all appliances remained in attendance at the incident, and the LFRS drone had also been called to attend to inspect the damage from above.
It is still not known how the blaze started. A Lancashire Fire Service spokesman added: “It is not thought that the fire was started deliberately.”
The building was originally Ellenshaw Mill, which was built before 1890.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
A spokesperson for the fire service said: "We currently have a large fire at a commercial premises in Darwen. The building is approximately 75m by 30m and two storeys. Firefighters from both Lancashire and Greater Manchester are in attendance and more resources are on the way. The fire is thought to involve the building and some motorcycle parts which are well alight. Currently we have four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, one hose reel in use and one jet. There's a large smoke plume in the area and local residents nearby are advised to close any windows and doors as a precaution." As of 3.20pm, all appliances remained in attendance at the incident, and the LFRS drone had also been called to attend to inspect the damage from above.
It is still not known how the blaze started. A Lancashire Fire Service spokesman added: “It is not thought that the fire was started deliberately.”
The building was originally Ellenshaw Mill, which was built before 1890.
News Source: Lancashire Telegraph
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
In 1891 George Walsh managed the mill, which had “302 looms, shirtings and jacconettes”. George was the third son of Nathaniel Walsh, an industrialist involved in the cotton industry in North East England. Nathaniel’s wealth derived from the coal that fortuitously lay beneath the family’s smallholding in Darwen. It meant that the Walsh boys, James, Charles and George enjoyed a privileged upbringing. George was educated at Queenwood College, before moving to Rugby School.
He played club cricket for Darwen and Nantwich, and went on to make two appearances in first-class cricket, making his debut for Lancashire in 1875 against Derbyshire at Old Trafford. A second and final first-class appearance for Lancashire came in 1877 against Sussex at Old Trafford. Walsh scored a total of 16 runs across his two matches, with a top-score of 15; when fielding he would field in the deep or at long stop. He suffered from indifferent health in his life and had long retired from the family business prior to his death at Darwen, Lancashire on 22 May 1904.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
In 1891 George Walsh managed the mill, which had “302 looms, shirtings and jacconettes”. George was the third son of Nathaniel Walsh, an industrialist involved in the cotton industry in North East England. Nathaniel’s wealth derived from the coal that fortuitously lay beneath the family’s smallholding in Darwen. It meant that the Walsh boys, James, Charles and George enjoyed a privileged upbringing. George was educated at Queenwood College, before moving to Rugby School.
He played club cricket for Darwen and Nantwich, and went on to make two appearances in first-class cricket, making his debut for Lancashire in 1875 against Derbyshire at Old Trafford. A second and final first-class appearance for Lancashire came in 1877 against Sussex at Old Trafford. Walsh scored a total of 16 runs across his two matches, with a top-score of 15; when fielding he would field in the deep or at long stop. He suffered from indifferent health in his life and had long retired from the family business prior to his death at Darwen, Lancashire on 22 May 1904.
5 August 2020 (19:09) - Large fire breaks out at former 'mansion' in Macclesfield
A large fire has broken out at a former mansion in Macclesfield. The fire has prompted a road closure on Beech Lane and people are being asked to avoid the area. Firefighters have been tackling the blaze at a three-storey former home on Beech Lane throughout the night. Crews still remain at the scene this morning as they try and dampen down the flames.
Firefighters were initially called to the area on Wednesday (August 5) shortly after 7pm and found a detached three storey brick building, measuring approximately 15 metres by 25 metres, was well alight. No-one was inside the building. The fire had spread into the roof space. Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene. The road was closed, a cordon was set up, water supplies were established and firefighters thought the fire with three main jets. The firefighting activity was initially split into sectors. Firefighters wore respirators whilst fighting the fire. The aerial ladder platform enabled firefighters to fight the fire from above. It also enabled firefighters to remove roof tiles and expose hotspots. Once the fire was under control a thermal imaging camera was used to find hotspots and monitor temperatures. Hotspots were damped down. The process of finding hotspots and dampening them down continued overnight via relief crews.
Witnesses at the scene said the building was a former 14 bed mansion and was due to be demolished by its owner. James Kitchman said last night: "The fire service, try as it might, haven't been able to get it under control yet (in part due to trying to erect the big ladder truck directly under a massive tree then having to give up and move it). It’s a shame to see such a beautiful old property destroyed but the owner put in a planning application to demolish it only last month anyway so it likely wouldn’t have been there much longer."
Firefighters were still in attendance at 8am, though there was no longer an aerial ladder platform at the scene. Crews continued to look for hotspots and damp them down. Temperatures were being monitored with a thermal imaging camera. Beech Lane remained closed from Hibel Road to Brocklehurst Way.
By 11am, an investigation into the cause of the fire had begun and a building inspector had arrived at the scene. At 1.30pm firefighters had inspected the building as much as possible and found no signs of fire. Part of the building was deemed to be unsafe for firefighters to enter and so that part of the building was inspected in a safe manner from outside. A structural surveyor and the owner of the building are set to come to the site to secure the building and determined what action needs to be taken. Members of the public were advised to stay away from the building as it is unsafe.
This large 14 bedroom, late Victorian detached house was built on land originally owned by the Brocklehurst family who owned the Brocklehurst Mill, the largest silk weaving mill in England during the 19th century. Constructed in pink sandstone with kerridge stone quoins and welsh slate roof. The house itself is set in 1.6 acres of land, with a variety of outbuildings, garages, large garden and has recently been on the market for £1.5 million. It is also known as 'Sally's House' due to all the graffiti scribbling on the walls of nearly every room.
News Source: Cheshire F&RS
Firefighters were initially called to the area on Wednesday (August 5) shortly after 7pm and found a detached three storey brick building, measuring approximately 15 metres by 25 metres, was well alight. No-one was inside the building. The fire had spread into the roof space. Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene. The road was closed, a cordon was set up, water supplies were established and firefighters thought the fire with three main jets. The firefighting activity was initially split into sectors. Firefighters wore respirators whilst fighting the fire. The aerial ladder platform enabled firefighters to fight the fire from above. It also enabled firefighters to remove roof tiles and expose hotspots. Once the fire was under control a thermal imaging camera was used to find hotspots and monitor temperatures. Hotspots were damped down. The process of finding hotspots and dampening them down continued overnight via relief crews.
Witnesses at the scene said the building was a former 14 bed mansion and was due to be demolished by its owner. James Kitchman said last night: "The fire service, try as it might, haven't been able to get it under control yet (in part due to trying to erect the big ladder truck directly under a massive tree then having to give up and move it). It’s a shame to see such a beautiful old property destroyed but the owner put in a planning application to demolish it only last month anyway so it likely wouldn’t have been there much longer."
Firefighters were still in attendance at 8am, though there was no longer an aerial ladder platform at the scene. Crews continued to look for hotspots and damp them down. Temperatures were being monitored with a thermal imaging camera. Beech Lane remained closed from Hibel Road to Brocklehurst Way.
By 11am, an investigation into the cause of the fire had begun and a building inspector had arrived at the scene. At 1.30pm firefighters had inspected the building as much as possible and found no signs of fire. Part of the building was deemed to be unsafe for firefighters to enter and so that part of the building was inspected in a safe manner from outside. A structural surveyor and the owner of the building are set to come to the site to secure the building and determined what action needs to be taken. Members of the public were advised to stay away from the building as it is unsafe.
This large 14 bedroom, late Victorian detached house was built on land originally owned by the Brocklehurst family who owned the Brocklehurst Mill, the largest silk weaving mill in England during the 19th century. Constructed in pink sandstone with kerridge stone quoins and welsh slate roof. The house itself is set in 1.6 acres of land, with a variety of outbuildings, garages, large garden and has recently been on the market for £1.5 million. It is also known as 'Sally's House' due to all the graffiti scribbling on the walls of nearly every room.
News Source: Cheshire F&RS
Near Miss
4 August 2020 (15:00*) - Balcombe viaduct arson: Two arrests made over fire in Sussex
4 August 2020 (15:00*) - Balcombe viaduct arson: Two arrests made over fire in Sussex
Two youths were arrested on suspicion of arson near a railway viaduct. Police and the fire service were called to Balcombe over a “deliberate fire” this afternoon. The fire was “out of control” and an old oak tree has been destroyed and had to be removed as a result. Inspector Darren Taylor said youths were seen setting fire to shrubs, and the fire was “extensive”. Workers at the Balcombe estate managed to detain two suspects, Mr Taylor said.
Firefighters from Haywards Heath and Crawley attended the blaze near the iconic 1,500 feet long railway bridge over the River Ouse.
The Ouse Valley Viaduct (or the Balcombe Viaduct) carries the London-Brighton Railway Line over the River Ouse in Sussex. Known for its ornate design, the structure has been described as "probably the most elegant viaduct in Britain. It is Grade II* listed. Construction of the Viaduct commenced during 1839. It was designed by the principal engineer for the line, John Urpeth Rastrick, in association with the architect of the London to Brighton railway, David Mocatta. On 12 July 1841, the viaduct was officially opened to train services, although the structure was not fully completed until the following year.
News Source: The Argus
Firefighters from Haywards Heath and Crawley attended the blaze near the iconic 1,500 feet long railway bridge over the River Ouse.
The Ouse Valley Viaduct (or the Balcombe Viaduct) carries the London-Brighton Railway Line over the River Ouse in Sussex. Known for its ornate design, the structure has been described as "probably the most elegant viaduct in Britain. It is Grade II* listed. Construction of the Viaduct commenced during 1839. It was designed by the principal engineer for the line, John Urpeth Rastrick, in association with the architect of the London to Brighton railway, David Mocatta. On 12 July 1841, the viaduct was officially opened to train services, although the structure was not fully completed until the following year.
News Source: The Argus
Listing Details
Entry Name: Ouse Valley Railway Viaduct
Listing Date: 11 May 1983 Grade: II* Source: Historic England Source ID: 1366101 English Heritage Legacy ID: 302382 Location: Balcombe, Mid Sussex, West Sussex, RH17 County: West Sussex District: Mid Sussex Civil Parish: Balcombe Traditional County: Sussex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): West Sussex Church of England Parish: Balcombe Church of England Diocese: Chichester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.0357 / 51°2'8"N Longitude: -0.115 / 0°6'54"W OS Eastings: 532262 OS Northings: 127952 OS Grid: TQ322279 Mapcode National: GBR KMS.V2J Mapcode Global: FRA B6NC.T5W Plus Code: 9C3X2VPM+7X |
4 August 2020 (12:55*) - Fire warning from Kettering pub landlord after tumble-dried tea towels ‘spontaneously combust’
The owner of a country pub near Kettering says he feels lucky not to have suffered worse damage after a pile of tea towels ‘spontaneously combusted’ in a washing basket. Landlord Joe Buckley, who owns The Tollemache Arms in Harrington, was keen to warn other catering businesses about this unusual fire risk, following an incident at his pub on August 4.
Shortly before 1pm, crews from Kettering and Desborough Fire Stations were called to reports of smoke coming from the pub. Firefighters investigated the source of the smoke and found it to be originating from a pile of tea towels and cloths which had been freshly laundered and tumble-dried. After the towels were collected from the tumble-drier, they were then put into a washing basket and placed downstairs in the pub.
Mr Buckley said: “Every week when we do our laundry it is the same routine. I tumble-dried them and left them in the basket and went out. They started smouldering and were like that for three hours. We were so lucky there was no fire damage.” Mr Buckley explained that one of the Harrington villagers had seen smoke and heard their smoke alarm going off so called 999 and also telephoned him to let him know what was happening. He explained: “Smoke had been pouring out of every hole in the building and we couldn’t see through any of the windows. Just 10 minutes longer and who knows what could have happened.”
The incident resulted in some moderate smoke damage to the pub ceiling, but no fire damage. Mr Buckley said: “We are close to a fantastic bunch of locals in a small village so I was lucky it was noticed by them. I have always done our laundry and use a boil wash but since this happened I have outsourced the washing and have taken that cost on board, which has given me more peace of mind.”
Although the phenomenon of this type of spontaneous combustion is very rare, there are nationally reported cases of significant damage being caused to different premises.These types of fires can happen when tea towels still contain residue fats or grease, despite having been washed. If they are then taken from the tumble dryer and piled up, they may still hold the heat within the centre of the stack. Even when washed at high temperatures, residues can still remain. The combination of heat, cooking fats and oxygenating chemicals from stain removing detergent products can create a chemical reaction, causing towels to start smouldering and catch fire. When piled, heat has nowhere to escape, which can result in the ignition point being reached.
Although rare, NFRS has attended other incidents of this type so firefighters are keen to warn business owners. Watch manager Graham Dexter of Kettering Fire Station said: “This is thankfully an unusual set of circumstances in which cloths ignite without any obvious source of ignition. Because of its rarity, many people have little knowledge that this kind of reaction is even a possibility. A key piece of advice we would give to people who launder cloths such as tea towels which could have come into contact with cooking oils, is to air laundry first, before folding, to allow any heat from the dryer to escape.” The fire service has issued these fire prevention tips:
The Tollemache Arms, the “Tolly”, is housed within a beautiful 16th century inn with a thatched roof and exposed brick work.
News Source: Northamptonshire Telegraph
Shortly before 1pm, crews from Kettering and Desborough Fire Stations were called to reports of smoke coming from the pub. Firefighters investigated the source of the smoke and found it to be originating from a pile of tea towels and cloths which had been freshly laundered and tumble-dried. After the towels were collected from the tumble-drier, they were then put into a washing basket and placed downstairs in the pub.
Mr Buckley said: “Every week when we do our laundry it is the same routine. I tumble-dried them and left them in the basket and went out. They started smouldering and were like that for three hours. We were so lucky there was no fire damage.” Mr Buckley explained that one of the Harrington villagers had seen smoke and heard their smoke alarm going off so called 999 and also telephoned him to let him know what was happening. He explained: “Smoke had been pouring out of every hole in the building and we couldn’t see through any of the windows. Just 10 minutes longer and who knows what could have happened.”
The incident resulted in some moderate smoke damage to the pub ceiling, but no fire damage. Mr Buckley said: “We are close to a fantastic bunch of locals in a small village so I was lucky it was noticed by them. I have always done our laundry and use a boil wash but since this happened I have outsourced the washing and have taken that cost on board, which has given me more peace of mind.”
Although the phenomenon of this type of spontaneous combustion is very rare, there are nationally reported cases of significant damage being caused to different premises.These types of fires can happen when tea towels still contain residue fats or grease, despite having been washed. If they are then taken from the tumble dryer and piled up, they may still hold the heat within the centre of the stack. Even when washed at high temperatures, residues can still remain. The combination of heat, cooking fats and oxygenating chemicals from stain removing detergent products can create a chemical reaction, causing towels to start smouldering and catch fire. When piled, heat has nowhere to escape, which can result in the ignition point being reached.
Although rare, NFRS has attended other incidents of this type so firefighters are keen to warn business owners. Watch manager Graham Dexter of Kettering Fire Station said: “This is thankfully an unusual set of circumstances in which cloths ignite without any obvious source of ignition. Because of its rarity, many people have little knowledge that this kind of reaction is even a possibility. A key piece of advice we would give to people who launder cloths such as tea towels which could have come into contact with cooking oils, is to air laundry first, before folding, to allow any heat from the dryer to escape.” The fire service has issued these fire prevention tips:
- Avoid placing freshly dried laundry which may have come into contact with greases or fat into stacks or piles
- Ensure laundry has an opportunity to cool down before it is folded. Air it first before folding, to allow the heat to escape
- Always wash tea towels/other similar purpose cloths on a hot wash
- Do not leave damp washing in a hot or warm tumble dryer
The Tollemache Arms, the “Tolly”, is housed within a beautiful 16th century inn with a thatched roof and exposed brick work.
News Source: Northamptonshire Telegraph
4 August 2020 (00:47) - Firefighters battle blaze at Stoke-on-Trent pottery factory
Fire has ripped through one of Stoke-on-Trent's most-iconic pottery factories - again. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the blaze at the former Price and Kensington Teaport Works, in Longport, in the early hours of today. An orange glow of flames could be seen from the upstairs windows as firefighters attempted to put out the blaze. It is not the first time a fire has broken out at the Newcastle Street factory.
Firefighters spent more than four hours tackling a blaze at the former factory. A Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "Firefighters were called to a report of a fire at a former pottery building on Newcastle Street in at around 0.47am today (August 4). Crews from Sandyford, Hanley and Longton attended and found two floors well alight. Firefighters used one main jet to put out the flames with the help of an aerial ladder platform. The flames were extinguished at around 5am. A crew from Sandyford attended the scene again at around 8.30am this morning to reinspect and used one hose reel jet to dampen down hot spots. The blaze is now out and an inspection team from the council are assessing the building today. An investigation into the cause is on-going."
The Grade II* listed building is described as 'highly vulnerable’ by Historic England and is on the organisation's at-risk register. Its listing on the at-risk register states: “This site has been subject to fires and heritage crime and is in a poor condition. It is highly vulnerable and continues to deteriorate. Historic England has offered technical support and advice to Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Urgent works are required to stabilise the buildings while a long-term solution is found for the site.” Stoke-on-Trent City Council last year partially bulldozed the building after surveys revealed the structure is unsafe.
The latest fire comes after Stoke-on-Trent City Council prosecuted the owner of the 18th century potbank after it fell into disrepair. Magistrates found Middlesex-based Charles Lewis and Co guilty of failing to comply with an improvement notice in its absence. The company was handed a £1,000 fine and was also ordered to pay a £100 victim surcharge and £530 council costs.
Councillor Dan Jellyman, the city council's cabinet member for heritage, has welcomed the prosecution last October. He said: "The council is committed to protecting our city’s heritage and it is with deep regret that the Price Kensington site has fallen into this condition. We have been urging the owner for some time to complete works to the building but unfortunately nothing has been done, which left us in a position where we have had to take legal action as a last resort. We will continue to pursue the owner in respect of the poor condition and appearance of the building.”
But the building has now been set on fire once again.
News Source: Stoke Sentinel
Firefighters spent more than four hours tackling a blaze at the former factory. A Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: "Firefighters were called to a report of a fire at a former pottery building on Newcastle Street in at around 0.47am today (August 4). Crews from Sandyford, Hanley and Longton attended and found two floors well alight. Firefighters used one main jet to put out the flames with the help of an aerial ladder platform. The flames were extinguished at around 5am. A crew from Sandyford attended the scene again at around 8.30am this morning to reinspect and used one hose reel jet to dampen down hot spots. The blaze is now out and an inspection team from the council are assessing the building today. An investigation into the cause is on-going."
The Grade II* listed building is described as 'highly vulnerable’ by Historic England and is on the organisation's at-risk register. Its listing on the at-risk register states: “This site has been subject to fires and heritage crime and is in a poor condition. It is highly vulnerable and continues to deteriorate. Historic England has offered technical support and advice to Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Urgent works are required to stabilise the buildings while a long-term solution is found for the site.” Stoke-on-Trent City Council last year partially bulldozed the building after surveys revealed the structure is unsafe.
The latest fire comes after Stoke-on-Trent City Council prosecuted the owner of the 18th century potbank after it fell into disrepair. Magistrates found Middlesex-based Charles Lewis and Co guilty of failing to comply with an improvement notice in its absence. The company was handed a £1,000 fine and was also ordered to pay a £100 victim surcharge and £530 council costs.
Councillor Dan Jellyman, the city council's cabinet member for heritage, has welcomed the prosecution last October. He said: "The council is committed to protecting our city’s heritage and it is with deep regret that the Price Kensington site has fallen into this condition. We have been urging the owner for some time to complete works to the building but unfortunately nothing has been done, which left us in a position where we have had to take legal action as a last resort. We will continue to pursue the owner in respect of the poor condition and appearance of the building.”
But the building has now been set on fire once again.
News Source: Stoke Sentinel
Listing Details
Entry Name: Price and Kensington Teapot Works
Listing Date: 20 August 1979 Last Amended: 15 March 1993 Grade: II* Source: Historic England Source ID: 1290799 English Heritage Legacy ID: 384458 Location: Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 County: City of Stoke-on-Trent Electoral Ward/Division: Burslem Central Built-Up Area: Stoke-on-Trent Traditional County: Staffordshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Staffordshire Church of England Parish: Burslem St Paul Church of England Diocese: Lichfield |
Coordinates
Latitude: 53.0446 / 53°2'40"N Longitude: -2.2136 / 2°12'48"W OS Eastings: 385777 OS Northings: 349728 OS Grid: SJ857497 Mapcode National: GBR MB3.D3 Mapcode Global: WHBCL.ZQ2S |
3 August 2020 (23:12) - Fire rips through old market, Scunthorpe
Humberside Fire and Rescue was called after witnesses reported seeing smoke pouring from the old market building in Scunthorpe in the early hours of Tuesday morning.Fire crews tackled the blaze for around four hours. They were on site until around 3am.
The front of the historic building has been partially destroyed and the rest of the structure has sustained serious damage. Demolition work is underway at the site, which has been vacant for some time. North Lincolnshire Council has confirmed that this will not delay the demolition.
A spokesperson for Humberside Fire and Rescue said: “We received a call at 11.12pm. Part of the front has been 100 per cent destroyed, and the rest of the building has suffered smoke damage. During the operation, we used six breathing apparatus, four jets, two hose reels and two ladders. The exact cause hasn’t been determined yet, but has determined to be deliberate.”
Humberside Police added: “An investigation has begun following reports of a fire at a building on Market Hill, Scunthorpe just after 11pm last night, Monday 3 August. The investigation is in its very early stages with lines of enquiry ongoing to determine the circumstances that led the building to catch fire. Fortunately, no-one was in the building at the time. We would ask anyone who may have information that could help our enquiries to contact us on our non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 16/81388/20. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” It has been confirmed that the fire was started deliberately. Nobody is thought to have been injured during the blaze.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Scunthorpe Urban District Council completed the purchase of a site at the corner of Market Hill and High Street East. The new market replaced a smaller one which had been owned by Mr H J Parkinson, from whom the rights and existing market were bought for £5,000. As it was being funded locally, ratepayers had to be consulted through a public poll and voted in favour of the move under the terms of the 1875 Public Health Act. It was a staple of the town centre, with thousands of local people having happy memories of the facility down the decades. Queues often formed late in the day as housewives clamoured to pick up cut-price meat, fruit and veg that remained unsold on the stalls as the proprietors prepared to head home.
A new hall was added in the 1920s, doubling the accommodation offered to traders, and an open market was created for the building of what were called loose stalls. The cattle market was changed to Mondays and continued to operate until March 1970, when it was closed on economic grounds. Major Scunthorpe Market refurbishment was carried out by the town's borough council in 1972. A new £300,000 structure – integral to the pedestrianised town centre - was officially opened by Councillor P G Frost, president of the National Association of British Market Authorities.
Scunthorpe's local authority said at the time: "Construction of the hall is based on that of Kentish oasthouses. Its towers are a functional part of a natural ventilation system to maintain a steady temperature for the drying of hops." There were four shop units and 42 stalls.
News Source: GI Media
The front of the historic building has been partially destroyed and the rest of the structure has sustained serious damage. Demolition work is underway at the site, which has been vacant for some time. North Lincolnshire Council has confirmed that this will not delay the demolition.
A spokesperson for Humberside Fire and Rescue said: “We received a call at 11.12pm. Part of the front has been 100 per cent destroyed, and the rest of the building has suffered smoke damage. During the operation, we used six breathing apparatus, four jets, two hose reels and two ladders. The exact cause hasn’t been determined yet, but has determined to be deliberate.”
Humberside Police added: “An investigation has begun following reports of a fire at a building on Market Hill, Scunthorpe just after 11pm last night, Monday 3 August. The investigation is in its very early stages with lines of enquiry ongoing to determine the circumstances that led the building to catch fire. Fortunately, no-one was in the building at the time. We would ask anyone who may have information that could help our enquiries to contact us on our non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 16/81388/20. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.” It has been confirmed that the fire was started deliberately. Nobody is thought to have been injured during the blaze.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Scunthorpe Urban District Council completed the purchase of a site at the corner of Market Hill and High Street East. The new market replaced a smaller one which had been owned by Mr H J Parkinson, from whom the rights and existing market were bought for £5,000. As it was being funded locally, ratepayers had to be consulted through a public poll and voted in favour of the move under the terms of the 1875 Public Health Act. It was a staple of the town centre, with thousands of local people having happy memories of the facility down the decades. Queues often formed late in the day as housewives clamoured to pick up cut-price meat, fruit and veg that remained unsold on the stalls as the proprietors prepared to head home.
A new hall was added in the 1920s, doubling the accommodation offered to traders, and an open market was created for the building of what were called loose stalls. The cattle market was changed to Mondays and continued to operate until March 1970, when it was closed on economic grounds. Major Scunthorpe Market refurbishment was carried out by the town's borough council in 1972. A new £300,000 structure – integral to the pedestrianised town centre - was officially opened by Councillor P G Frost, president of the National Association of British Market Authorities.
Scunthorpe's local authority said at the time: "Construction of the hall is based on that of Kentish oasthouses. Its towers are a functional part of a natural ventilation system to maintain a steady temperature for the drying of hops." There were four shop units and 42 stalls.
News Source: GI Media
3 August 2020 (20:00*) - Police hunt firebugs who torched pair of farm buildings in Aberdeenshire
Officers have launched an appeal for information following two fires at derelict buildings near New Pitsligo, which they believe to be linked.
The first incident was reported on Wednesday, June 17, at Whitehill Farm, Middlemuir (see separate entry) and happened between 7pm and 11pm. The second happened at Whitehill Croft, Middlemuir, around half a mile away on Monday, August 3, between 6pm and 9pm.
The owner of the properties last night praised the emergency services for their response. The man, who asked not to be named, said: “I’d like to say thank you to the fire brigade and police for attending the incidents. Nobody was injured but the two buildings were badly damaged. I wasn’t at either of the properties at the time, but someone nearby noticed the smoke and alerted me.”
Regional manager of NFU Scotland, Lorna Paterson, condemned those responsible. She said: “If these situations are proven to be deliberate, then it goes without saying that we would hope the criminals are identified and dealt with appropriately.” Police believe that to be the case, and officers are treating the crimes as linked. Detective Constable Keith Rennie, of Ellon CID, is urging anyone with information to come forward. He said: “We would be especially keen to speak to any motorists, including anyone with dash-cam footage who has been travelling on the B9093 between Strichen and New Pitsligo and the unclassified road passing Middlemuir, New Pitsligo, within these times.” Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident 3407 of August 3, or can pass on details anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Whitehill Croft possibly dates back to the early 19th century. It existed in 1869 during the OS survey of the area. At that time it was occupied by John Brown, and was owned by G Baird Esq.
News Source: The Press and Journal
The first incident was reported on Wednesday, June 17, at Whitehill Farm, Middlemuir (see separate entry) and happened between 7pm and 11pm. The second happened at Whitehill Croft, Middlemuir, around half a mile away on Monday, August 3, between 6pm and 9pm.
The owner of the properties last night praised the emergency services for their response. The man, who asked not to be named, said: “I’d like to say thank you to the fire brigade and police for attending the incidents. Nobody was injured but the two buildings were badly damaged. I wasn’t at either of the properties at the time, but someone nearby noticed the smoke and alerted me.”
Regional manager of NFU Scotland, Lorna Paterson, condemned those responsible. She said: “If these situations are proven to be deliberate, then it goes without saying that we would hope the criminals are identified and dealt with appropriately.” Police believe that to be the case, and officers are treating the crimes as linked. Detective Constable Keith Rennie, of Ellon CID, is urging anyone with information to come forward. He said: “We would be especially keen to speak to any motorists, including anyone with dash-cam footage who has been travelling on the B9093 between Strichen and New Pitsligo and the unclassified road passing Middlemuir, New Pitsligo, within these times.” Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident 3407 of August 3, or can pass on details anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Whitehill Croft possibly dates back to the early 19th century. It existed in 1869 during the OS survey of the area. At that time it was occupied by John Brown, and was owned by G Baird Esq.
News Source: The Press and Journal
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
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Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Phone: 07840 351458 Email: hello@fireprotect.me.uk
July - 38 Fires & 9 Near Misses
Near Miss
31 July 2020 (14:21) - Fire crews called blaze on Eastbourne Pier
31 July 2020 (14:21) - Fire crews called blaze on Eastbourne Pier
Firefighters were called to a blaze at a pier. East Sussex Fire and Rescue were called to Eastbourne Pier at 2.21pm to reports of a “small fire”. Three fire appliances and 12 firefighters were scrambled, and a spokeswoman said: “On arrival, our crews discovered there had been a fire on a trailer between two buildings. The fire was out by the time we arrived. We are currently dampening down the scene and using thermal imaging, just in case.” Beachgoers stood on the shore as smoke billowed across the skyline. Pictures taken at the scene show the fire before the arrival of emergency services.
Eastbourne Pier is a Grade II* listed structure. It opened on 13th June 1870 and was designed by Eugenius Birch. The 1901 wooden theatre building at the end of the pier suffered significant damage in a fire in 1970 and the “Blue Room” building, at the shore end of the pier, was completely destroyed by fire on the 30th July. Up to 80 firefighters tackled that blaze from the coast, the beach and from underneath the Victorian structure. Embers could still be seen burning some five hours after the fire started.
News Source: UKNIP247
Eastbourne Pier is a Grade II* listed structure. It opened on 13th June 1870 and was designed by Eugenius Birch. The 1901 wooden theatre building at the end of the pier suffered significant damage in a fire in 1970 and the “Blue Room” building, at the shore end of the pier, was completely destroyed by fire on the 30th July. Up to 80 firefighters tackled that blaze from the coast, the beach and from underneath the Victorian structure. Embers could still be seen burning some five hours after the fire started.
News Source: UKNIP247
Entry Name: Eastbourne Pier
Listing Date: 17 May 1971 Grade: II* Source: Historic England Source ID: 1353116 English Heritage Legacy ID: 293564 Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 County: East Sussex District: Eastbourne Electoral Ward/Division: Devonshire Parish: Non Civil Parish Built-Up Area: Eastbourne Traditional County: Sussex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): East Sussex Church of England Parish: Eastbourne Holy Trinity Church of England Diocese: Chichester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.7666 / 50°45'59"N Longitude: 0.2938 / 0°17'37"E OS Eastings: 561850 OS Northings: 98847 OS Grid: TV618988 Mapcode National: GBR MV8.WLH Mapcode Global: FRA C7H2.47S Plus Code: 9F22Q78V+MG |
31 July 2020 (14:00*) - King Billy Grill closed after fire
A popular restaurant is closed for the foreseeable after a fire broke out on the property. The King Billy Grill, Kirksanton, is best known for its selection of meat, with fans travelling from all over the globe to taste it.
The restaurant owner took to social media to say: "Unfortunately, this afternoon we had a fire at the pub. Therefore, we won’t be open for the foreseeable future. We apologise to those who have bookings with us tonight and over the next few weeks, we will try and contact you all individually. Thank you to the local fire brigade for all of their work today, we are very grateful."
King Billy Grill, Kirksanton was formerly known as the King William The Fourth Hotel. It was common practice to rename a pub in honour of the incumbent royal in a bid to ingratiate oneself. So it is likely that the King William IV was so-named during that monarch’s seven-year reign from 1830-1837 and so dates to at least the late Georgian period. It certainly existed in 1860 where it is shown on the OS map.
News Source: The Mail
The restaurant owner took to social media to say: "Unfortunately, this afternoon we had a fire at the pub. Therefore, we won’t be open for the foreseeable future. We apologise to those who have bookings with us tonight and over the next few weeks, we will try and contact you all individually. Thank you to the local fire brigade for all of their work today, we are very grateful."
King Billy Grill, Kirksanton was formerly known as the King William The Fourth Hotel. It was common practice to rename a pub in honour of the incumbent royal in a bid to ingratiate oneself. So it is likely that the King William IV was so-named during that monarch’s seven-year reign from 1830-1837 and so dates to at least the late Georgian period. It certainly existed in 1860 where it is shown on the OS map.
News Source: The Mail
Near Miss
29 July 2020 (21:35) – Rubbish set alight just metres from St James’ Church, Barrow
29 July 2020 (21:35) – Rubbish set alight just metres from St James’ Church, Barrow
It was a busy night for Barrow crews as firefighters responded to three calls out across Wednesday evening. At approximately 21:35 a crew from Barrow attended a small fire in the open in Blake Street, Barrow. Although it was only a small fire, it did cause damage to the tarmac path, and was just metres away from the Grade II* listed Church of St James.
St. James' was established in 1867 and construction of the building itself was completed in 1869; it was only the second Anglican church to be built in the rapidly growing town. With a capacity of over 1,000 worshipers, St. James' is the largest place of worship in the town; architecturally the building is also one of the most prominent features in the Barrow skyline. The spire of St. James' stands at 45.7 m (150 ft), while the length and breadth of the building come to 39 m (128 ft) and 18.3 m (60 ft) respectively.
News Source: The Mail
St. James' was established in 1867 and construction of the building itself was completed in 1869; it was only the second Anglican church to be built in the rapidly growing town. With a capacity of over 1,000 worshipers, St. James' is the largest place of worship in the town; architecturally the building is also one of the most prominent features in the Barrow skyline. The spire of St. James' stands at 45.7 m (150 ft), while the length and breadth of the building come to 39 m (128 ft) and 18.3 m (60 ft) respectively.
News Source: The Mail
Listing Details
Entry Name: Church of St James
Listing Date: 6 May 1976 Grade: II* Source: Historic England Source ID: 1197881 English Heritage Legacy ID: 388416 Location: Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA14 County: Cumbria Electoral Ward/Division: Hindpool Built-Up Area: Barrow-in-Furness Traditional County: Lancashire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cumbria Church of England Parish: Barrow-in-Furness St James Church of England Diocese: Carlisle |
Coordinates
Latitude: 54.119 / 54°7'8"N Longitude: -3.2337 / 3°14'1"W OS Eastings: 319460 OS Northings: 469944 OS Grid: SD194699 Mapcode National: GBR 5NVT.Q6 Mapcode Global: WH72H.9QDN Plus Code: 9C6R4Q98+JG |
29 July 2020 (20:50) - Derbyshire fire sees mill partially collapse
An investigation into a large blaze, which saw a derelict mill partially collapse last night, will take place this morning. At least seven crews and other emergency services were called to Heanor Road in Ilkeston at about 8.50pm on Wednesday, July 29. At one stage, crews had to suspend firefighting at the four-storey site following a "partial collapse". According to councillor James Dawson, it is the old Nortons Plastics building. Details of any injuries are not known at this stage. The road was closed while firefighters worked at the scene. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and find an alternative route. Firefighters left the site at around 1am.
In a tweet, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "All firefighters have now left the scene at Heanor Road. They will re-convene later this morning to liaise with a structural engineer from @ErewashBC and to carry out fire investigation." Heanor Road has now reopened between the junctions of Grey Meadow Road and the Tesco roundabout. However, the alleyway alongside the old Norton Plastics factory which links Cotmanhay Road with Heanor Road remains closed this morning. This is to enable firefighters to carry out a full structural examination of the building.
The former Norton Plastics factory on Heanor Road was originally Bailey's lace and hosiery factory. The building nearest to the road dates from around 1830, the section beyond being dated 1855, the whole being Listed Grade II. The factory has been unoccupied since 2008 when it was sold for development as apartments, although nothing appears to have happened.
News Source: Derby Telegraph
In a tweet, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "All firefighters have now left the scene at Heanor Road. They will re-convene later this morning to liaise with a structural engineer from @ErewashBC and to carry out fire investigation." Heanor Road has now reopened between the junctions of Grey Meadow Road and the Tesco roundabout. However, the alleyway alongside the old Norton Plastics factory which links Cotmanhay Road with Heanor Road remains closed this morning. This is to enable firefighters to carry out a full structural examination of the building.
The former Norton Plastics factory on Heanor Road was originally Bailey's lace and hosiery factory. The building nearest to the road dates from around 1830, the section beyond being dated 1855, the whole being Listed Grade II. The factory has been unoccupied since 2008 when it was sold for development as apartments, although nothing appears to have happened.
News Source: Derby Telegraph
Listing Details
Entry Name: Baileys Factory Now Norton Plastics
Listing Date: 6 November 1986 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1140439 English Heritage Legacy ID: 352241 Location: Erewash, Derbyshire, DE7 County: Derbyshire District: Erewash Town: Erewash Electoral Ward/Division: Awsworth Road Built-Up Area: Ilkeston Traditional County: Derbyshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Derbyshire Church of England Parish: Ilkeston Holy Trinity Church of England Diocese: Derby |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.9789 / 52°58'43"N Longitude: -1.3099 / 1°18'35"W OS Eastings: 446431 OS Northings: 342613 OS Grid: SK464426 Mapcode National: GBR 7FT.CLX Mapcode Global: WHDGP.VDD5 Plus Code: 9C4WXMHR+G2 |
29 July 2020 (16:48) - Firefighters tackle fire at empty Winnington Hill building
Firefighters are at the scene of a disused building in Winnington Hill, Northwich which has been on fire. Crews from Northwich, Middlewich and Lymm have been dealing with a blaze at the detached two-storey building since 4.50pm today, July 29. It took two firefireghters wearing breathing apparatus to dampen the flames, they used a hose reel jet, covering jet and a seven metre ladder to tackle the fire and damp it down. Smoke has now been removed from the building.
The fire was successfully put out by Cheshire Fire and Rescue by 5.09pm. Crews are continuing to damp down the area this evening to ensure it doesn't reignite and cutting away affected areas. They are also removing roof tiles with the assistance of the aerial ladder platform.
The fire, which was located on the second floor of the abandoned building, is now being treated as a suspected deliberate act. Rubbish has been found at the site, which authorities believe indicates that the fire was started on purpose. The room where the fire started is badly heat, fire and smoke damaged, and the blaze burnt through the floor. Anyone with information should contact the police anonymously by calling 101.
The building is Grade II listed and was built in the late 18th century as a house. It was latterly a solicitor’s offices.
News Source: Northwich Guardian
The fire was successfully put out by Cheshire Fire and Rescue by 5.09pm. Crews are continuing to damp down the area this evening to ensure it doesn't reignite and cutting away affected areas. They are also removing roof tiles with the assistance of the aerial ladder platform.
The fire, which was located on the second floor of the abandoned building, is now being treated as a suspected deliberate act. Rubbish has been found at the site, which authorities believe indicates that the fire was started on purpose. The room where the fire started is badly heat, fire and smoke damaged, and the blaze burnt through the floor. Anyone with information should contact the police anonymously by calling 101.
The building is Grade II listed and was built in the late 18th century as a house. It was latterly a solicitor’s offices.
News Source: Northwich Guardian
Listing Details
Entry Name: 16, Winnington Street
Listing Date: 19 August 1986 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1139115 English Heritage Legacy ID: 57643 Location: Northwich, Cheshire West and Chester, CW8 County: Cheshire West and Chester Civil Parish: Northwich Built-Up Area: Northwich Traditional County: Cheshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cheshire Church of England Parish: Northwich St Luke Church of England Diocese: Chester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 53.2608 / 53°15'38"N Longitude: -2.5168 / 2°31'0"W OS Eastings: 365620 OS Northings: 373874 OS Grid: SJ656738 Mapcode National: GBR BZVQ.XT Mapcode Global: WH99C.99RL Plus Code: 9C5V7F6M+87 |
28 July 2020 (18:00*) - Arrest after tent fire in Old Reading Room in Madeira Drive, Brighton
A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and assault after a tent was set on fire in a listed structure. The 50-year-old from Brighton was arrested by officers after the fire at the Old Reading Room in Madeira Drive on Tuesday. Police were called to the Grade II listed structure at Black Rock, on Brighton seafront, shortly before 6pm to a report of a man being threatened by another man.
On arrival, the force said, officers discovered a tent on fire in the structure. East Sussex Fire and Rescue sent two engines to the building to extinguish the flames. Pictures from the scene show charred marks on the architecture, which homeless people are using for shelter. Burnt fragments of belongings can also be seen inside the structure.
A suspect was arrested just after 8pm on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He remained in custody until 4pm yesterday.
The Old Reading Room, on the lower esplanade of the Kemp Town, was designed as a shelter with sea views when Lewes Crescent and Sussex Square were built in the 1820s. The location of the structure, directly on the seafront, made the building vulnerable to weather damage. The council is responsible for the building and recently announced a renovation plan for structure, which has significantly deteriorated in recent years.
News Source: The Argus
On arrival, the force said, officers discovered a tent on fire in the structure. East Sussex Fire and Rescue sent two engines to the building to extinguish the flames. Pictures from the scene show charred marks on the architecture, which homeless people are using for shelter. Burnt fragments of belongings can also be seen inside the structure.
A suspect was arrested just after 8pm on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He remained in custody until 4pm yesterday.
The Old Reading Room, on the lower esplanade of the Kemp Town, was designed as a shelter with sea views when Lewes Crescent and Sussex Square were built in the 1820s. The location of the structure, directly on the seafront, made the building vulnerable to weather damage. The council is responsible for the building and recently announced a renovation plan for structure, which has significantly deteriorated in recent years.
News Source: The Argus
Listing Details
Entry Name: Old Reading Room
Listing Date: 13 October 1952 Last Amended: 26 August 1999 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1380995 English Heritage Legacy ID: 481338 Location: Brighton and Hove, BN2 County: The City of Brighton and Hove Electoral Ward/Division: Rottingdean Coastal Built-Up Area: Brighton and Hove Traditional County: Sussex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): East Sussex Church of England Parish: Brighton St George with St Anne and St Mark Church of England Diocese: Chichester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.8151 / 50°48'54"N Longitude: -0.1116 / 0°6'41"W OS Eastings: 533131 OS Northings: 103426 OS Grid: TQ331034 Mapcode National: GBR KQH.W1J Mapcode Global: FRA B6NY.8C3 Plus Code: 9C2XRV8Q+29 |
28 July 2020 (13:21) - Brunswick Terrace Hove fire: Residents to be relocated
Firefighters rushed to an historic building after a blaze broke out. The crews were called to Brunswick Terrace, Hove at 1.21pm yesterday after reports the fire had broken out in a cavity wall. Roads in the surrounding area were blocked as eight fire engines and an aerial ladder were joined by the ambulance service’s hazardous area response team and police officers. The fire was affecting properties at all levels of the five-storey residential block, but had not spread along the terrace. East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the cause of the blaze is currently being investigated.
Brunswick Terrace is a Grade I listed development on Hove seafront and lies within the Brunswick Town Conservation Area. It was built during the Regency era between 1824 and the 1830s. It is understood the fire was between number nine and number ten, and the building was evacuated as a precaution. Shortly after 3pm the fire service said: “We are scaling back our presence at the scene of a fire in Brunswick Terrace.”
Some residents have not been able to return to their homes and have had to be relocated, while others were allowed to return. Steven Chantrey was visiting and said: “The fire alarms went off and as we opened the door the firemen were coming up the stairs telling everybody to get out of the building. There were several fire engines at the scene and the road was blocked as a result. They said fire came up between the walls. The building at number nine and number ten was evacuated. But I don’t think other residents have had to leave the building. I went across the road and could see a lot of smoke. It looked like it was coming out of the chimney or out of the roof. Fire crews wearing breathing respirators went into number nine. Then suddenly the smoke just stopped.”
He said residents at number ten could return, but not those who were in number nine which appears to have been more badly affected by the fire. Meanwhile, there were reports that firefighters had to cut holes in walls of people’s properties to inspect the cavity area to make sure it was safe. Mr Chantrey added: “I think a lot of properties will have had some water and smoke damage due to the fire.”
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Incident Commander Chris Baker said crews worked hard at the scene to both find the fire and to put it out. He said the fire crews had to stop it spreading through further cavities in the building and cut away through walls to make sure there were no more hotspots.
A multi-agency approach was taken with support from the HART (Hazardous Area Response Team) from the South East Coast Ambulance Service. Eight breathing apparatus, three hose reels, one main jet and one hydrant were used. Fire crews turned out from Preston Circus and Roedean, in Brighton, as well as from Hove, Newhaven, Seaford and Uckfield. The cause is being investigated.”
Brunswick Town has been described as one of the finest examples of Regency and early Victorian planning and architecture in the country. Much of the area was designed as a whole by the architect Charles Augustin Busby with Amon Wilds. The spacious elegant houses of Brunswick Square and Terrace were built between 1824 and 1840. The Brunswick Estate also had its own market building, town hall and Commissioners. In 1830, an Act of Parliament was made requiring all houses in Brunswick Square and Terrace and Brunswick Place (South) to be painted regularly and to a uniform colour. This is still a requirement and properties must be painted every five years. There are more than 500 listed buildings in the area, and in Brunswick Square and Terrace more than 100 are listed Grade I.
News Source: The Argus
Brunswick Terrace is a Grade I listed development on Hove seafront and lies within the Brunswick Town Conservation Area. It was built during the Regency era between 1824 and the 1830s. It is understood the fire was between number nine and number ten, and the building was evacuated as a precaution. Shortly after 3pm the fire service said: “We are scaling back our presence at the scene of a fire in Brunswick Terrace.”
Some residents have not been able to return to their homes and have had to be relocated, while others were allowed to return. Steven Chantrey was visiting and said: “The fire alarms went off and as we opened the door the firemen were coming up the stairs telling everybody to get out of the building. There were several fire engines at the scene and the road was blocked as a result. They said fire came up between the walls. The building at number nine and number ten was evacuated. But I don’t think other residents have had to leave the building. I went across the road and could see a lot of smoke. It looked like it was coming out of the chimney or out of the roof. Fire crews wearing breathing respirators went into number nine. Then suddenly the smoke just stopped.”
He said residents at number ten could return, but not those who were in number nine which appears to have been more badly affected by the fire. Meanwhile, there were reports that firefighters had to cut holes in walls of people’s properties to inspect the cavity area to make sure it was safe. Mr Chantrey added: “I think a lot of properties will have had some water and smoke damage due to the fire.”
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Incident Commander Chris Baker said crews worked hard at the scene to both find the fire and to put it out. He said the fire crews had to stop it spreading through further cavities in the building and cut away through walls to make sure there were no more hotspots.
A multi-agency approach was taken with support from the HART (Hazardous Area Response Team) from the South East Coast Ambulance Service. Eight breathing apparatus, three hose reels, one main jet and one hydrant were used. Fire crews turned out from Preston Circus and Roedean, in Brighton, as well as from Hove, Newhaven, Seaford and Uckfield. The cause is being investigated.”
Brunswick Town has been described as one of the finest examples of Regency and early Victorian planning and architecture in the country. Much of the area was designed as a whole by the architect Charles Augustin Busby with Amon Wilds. The spacious elegant houses of Brunswick Square and Terrace were built between 1824 and 1840. The Brunswick Estate also had its own market building, town hall and Commissioners. In 1830, an Act of Parliament was made requiring all houses in Brunswick Square and Terrace and Brunswick Place (South) to be painted regularly and to a uniform colour. This is still a requirement and properties must be painted every five years. There are more than 500 listed buildings in the area, and in Brunswick Square and Terrace more than 100 are listed Grade I.
News Source: The Argus
Listing Details
Entry Name: Nos 7-19 and Attached Railings
Listing Date: 24 March 1950 Last Amended: 2 November 1992 Grade: I Source: Historic England Source ID: 1281033 English Heritage Legacy ID: 365501 Location: Brighton and Hove, BN3 County: The City of Brighton and Hove Electoral Ward/Division: Brunswick and Adelaide Built-Up Area: Brighton and Hove Traditional County: Sussex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): East Sussex Church of England Parish: Brighton St Michael and All Angels Church of England Diocese: Chichester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.8232 / 50°49'23"N Longitude: -0.1581 / 0°9'29"W OS Eastings: 529833 OS Northings: 104249 OS Grid: TQ298042 Mapcode National: GBR JP3.8VY Mapcode Global: FRA B6KX.G8R Plus Code: 9C2XRRFR+7Q |
27 July 2020 (14:26) - Derelict building fire closes Peterborough roads
A house fire in Peterborough closed off a road today (July 27), and led to traffic being stopped in the area while police and fire crews work to tackle the blaze. Cambridgeshire Police along with Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service were both in attendance at the scene on New Road in Peterborough.
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service put out an update which said they were called at 2.46pm to a derelict building fire on London Road, Fletton. Crews from Dogsthorpe, Stanground and the multistar, Yaxley and Whittlesey attended and arrived to find a well-developed fire. Firefighters worked in sections using one hose reel and a jet to extinguish the fire. Crews began scaling back at 4.45pm.”
A Cambridgeshire Police spokeswoman said: “We were called just before 3pm to reports of a house fire on London Road, Peterborough. Officers are at the scene, together with firefighters. There are currently closures at New Road and the junction with London Road. Traffic has also been stopped at Peacock Bridge. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.”
The fire was at a large Victorian house called “The Oakleigh” at No 82 London Road. The house is shown on the 1889 OS map where it is attached to another large house which has since been demolished. The house has been empty for more than a decade. It also stands adjacent to 84-88 London Road, a short terrace of Regency Town Houses built around 1840 and is Locally Listed. The terrace has distinctive detailing and size make a significant contribution to the area – local landmark quality.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Live
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service put out an update which said they were called at 2.46pm to a derelict building fire on London Road, Fletton. Crews from Dogsthorpe, Stanground and the multistar, Yaxley and Whittlesey attended and arrived to find a well-developed fire. Firefighters worked in sections using one hose reel and a jet to extinguish the fire. Crews began scaling back at 4.45pm.”
A Cambridgeshire Police spokeswoman said: “We were called just before 3pm to reports of a house fire on London Road, Peterborough. Officers are at the scene, together with firefighters. There are currently closures at New Road and the junction with London Road. Traffic has also been stopped at Peacock Bridge. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.”
The fire was at a large Victorian house called “The Oakleigh” at No 82 London Road. The house is shown on the 1889 OS map where it is attached to another large house which has since been demolished. The house has been empty for more than a decade. It also stands adjacent to 84-88 London Road, a short terrace of Regency Town Houses built around 1840 and is Locally Listed. The terrace has distinctive detailing and size make a significant contribution to the area – local landmark quality.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Live
Near Miss
27 July 2020 (01:40) - Police investigation after arson attack at Norwich mosque
27 July 2020 (01:40) - Police investigation after arson attack at Norwich mosque
Police have launched an arson investigation following a fire at a Norwich mosque and community cafe in the early hours. Fire crews were called to the building on Aylsham Road in Norwich at around 1.40am on Monday, July 27 following reports of a blaze. Firefighters from Sprowston and Earlham tackled the fire at the former King Edward VII pub site which is undergoing a £1m revamp by the East Anglian Bangladeshi Islamic Trust. Police remained at the site on Monday morning and confirmed the fire was the result of an arson attack.
A police spokesman said: “A man was seen to start a fire in an outbuilding before leaving the area. Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service attended and damage was caused to the outbuilding only. Police are investigating the incident and reviewing CCTV and would be keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information concerning it.”
Planning permission was granted for the mosque at the former pub in December 2017 but the site had remained boarded up until recent months when work got underway on the redevelopment. A new mosque is needed to accommodate the East Anglian Islamic Centre’s growing congregation of 250 people which is currently based on Rose Lane. Outlining its plans the trust said that the former pub, which was built in 1902, would not be demolished. Instead, it will be refurbished and turned into a cafe for people to use regardless of their religious background.
Once finished the mosque will include a prayer hall, kitchen and cloakrooms on the first floor. Meanwhile the ground floor will house a counselling room, a gymnasium, prayer room, funeral room and office. The site, between Waterloo Park Avenue and Edmund Bacon Court, will also have 20 parking spaces with a further 50 spaces available to the nearby St Luke’s Church. When the plans were first made public, a spokesman for the trust said people living around the proposed site had been “very welcoming”. Witnesses should contact Sgt Steve Harrowing at Norwich North Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101 quoting crime reference 36/50641/20.
News Source: Norwich Evening News
A police spokesman said: “A man was seen to start a fire in an outbuilding before leaving the area. Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service attended and damage was caused to the outbuilding only. Police are investigating the incident and reviewing CCTV and would be keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information concerning it.”
Planning permission was granted for the mosque at the former pub in December 2017 but the site had remained boarded up until recent months when work got underway on the redevelopment. A new mosque is needed to accommodate the East Anglian Islamic Centre’s growing congregation of 250 people which is currently based on Rose Lane. Outlining its plans the trust said that the former pub, which was built in 1902, would not be demolished. Instead, it will be refurbished and turned into a cafe for people to use regardless of their religious background.
Once finished the mosque will include a prayer hall, kitchen and cloakrooms on the first floor. Meanwhile the ground floor will house a counselling room, a gymnasium, prayer room, funeral room and office. The site, between Waterloo Park Avenue and Edmund Bacon Court, will also have 20 parking spaces with a further 50 spaces available to the nearby St Luke’s Church. When the plans were first made public, a spokesman for the trust said people living around the proposed site had been “very welcoming”. Witnesses should contact Sgt Steve Harrowing at Norwich North Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101 quoting crime reference 36/50641/20.
News Source: Norwich Evening News
26 July 2020 (21:37) - Huge fire ravages Grade II listed house in Bickenhill owned by Birmingham Airport
A huge fire has ravaged a newly-refurbished Grade II listed house owned by Birmingham Airport. Fire crews were called to the property in Clock Lane, Bickenhill, just before 9.40pm on Sunday, July 27. Six appliances and 30 firefighters were sent to battle the blaze. Dramatic pictures flames pouring through the property as fire crews battled to bring it under control. There were no reported injuries. Fire crews were still at the scene on Monday morning extinguishing and damping down. The property is less than two miles from Birmingham Airport. The airport owns the property, which is used for staff accommodation.
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said: "We received a call at 9.37pm last night (Sunday) to reports of a large fire at a newly-refurbished Grade II listed property owned by Birmingham Airport. Six appliances were sent to the scene from a number of fire stations in the area. There have been no reports of injuries. Around 30 fire crews have been battling the fire overnight. It has now been brought under control. Fire crews remain at the scene this morning. At this stage the cause of the fire is still unknown and an investigation is taking place.”
Castle Hills Farmhouse was built in the 17th century.
News Source: Birmingham Live
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said: "We received a call at 9.37pm last night (Sunday) to reports of a large fire at a newly-refurbished Grade II listed property owned by Birmingham Airport. Six appliances were sent to the scene from a number of fire stations in the area. There have been no reports of injuries. Around 30 fire crews have been battling the fire overnight. It has now been brought under control. Fire crews remain at the scene this morning. At this stage the cause of the fire is still unknown and an investigation is taking place.”
Castle Hills Farmhouse was built in the 17th century.
News Source: Birmingham Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: Castle Hills Farmhouse
Listing Date: 22 July 1976 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1075950 English Heritage Legacy ID: 218141 Location: Bickenhill and Marston Green, Solihull, B92 County: Solihull Civil Parish: Bickenhill and Marston Green Traditional County: Warwickshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): West Midlands Church of England Parish: Bickenhill Church of England Diocese: Birmingham |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.4368 / 52°26'12"N Longitude: -1.7417 / 1°44'30"W OS Eastings: 417653 OS Northings: 282117 OS Grid: SP176821 Mapcode National: GBR 4HV.BGB Mapcode Global: VH9ZC.R0KT Plus Code: 9C4WC7P5+P8 |
26 July 2020 (14:02) - Firefighters called to pub kitchen blaze as male treated for smoke inhalation
Firefighters tackled a blaze in a pub kitchen in Manston this afternoon (Sunday) caused by what owners believe was a faulty thermostat. The Jolly Farmer on High Street was the scene of a small fryer fire which staff initially fought with fire extinguishers, but then called the fire brigade.
Kent Fire and Rescue - working with South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) - attended with two fire engines at 2.02pm with firefighters in breathing apparatus. In a statement, they said: "Crews used a combination of a fire blanket, dry powder fire extinguishers, high-pressure hose reel jets and a covering main jet to deal with the incident. A large fan was also deployed to clear smoke and fumes from the premises." No one was seriously injured and the pub was able to reopen after the firefighters left at 2.53pm. One male was treated for the effects of breathing in smoke and passed to the care of paramedics. They added: "The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental."
The pub posted on Facebook following the incident, explaining: "So we had a small fire in the kitchen caused by a faulty thermostat, we managed to put it out with the fire extinguishers but because the oil got extremely hot we called the fire brigade for safe measure and they are on site to ensure everything is ok." After assessing the situation, they reopened, saying: "Both our fryers were covered in foam so they will be binned and replaced with shiny new ones. Any food that was out has been thrown and we are currently offering a limited menu of steaks, burgers, sandwiches and lots more in the restaurant and also for delivery."
The building has been a pub since 1639, before which it was a farmhouse, so it is likely that the building dates back to the 16th century. In 1773 the pub was known as the "Crown and Anchor." It was a popular haunt during WWII for Battle of Britain air crews in 1940. The pub's name is a corruption of the "Golden Farmer", the nickname of a wealthy Bagshot man (and secret highwayman) called William Davis, (1627-90), from his habit of paying with gold coins – (See below).
News Source: Kent Live
Kent Fire and Rescue - working with South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) - attended with two fire engines at 2.02pm with firefighters in breathing apparatus. In a statement, they said: "Crews used a combination of a fire blanket, dry powder fire extinguishers, high-pressure hose reel jets and a covering main jet to deal with the incident. A large fan was also deployed to clear smoke and fumes from the premises." No one was seriously injured and the pub was able to reopen after the firefighters left at 2.53pm. One male was treated for the effects of breathing in smoke and passed to the care of paramedics. They added: "The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental."
The pub posted on Facebook following the incident, explaining: "So we had a small fire in the kitchen caused by a faulty thermostat, we managed to put it out with the fire extinguishers but because the oil got extremely hot we called the fire brigade for safe measure and they are on site to ensure everything is ok." After assessing the situation, they reopened, saying: "Both our fryers were covered in foam so they will be binned and replaced with shiny new ones. Any food that was out has been thrown and we are currently offering a limited menu of steaks, burgers, sandwiches and lots more in the restaurant and also for delivery."
The building has been a pub since 1639, before which it was a farmhouse, so it is likely that the building dates back to the 16th century. In 1773 the pub was known as the "Crown and Anchor." It was a popular haunt during WWII for Battle of Britain air crews in 1940. The pub's name is a corruption of the "Golden Farmer", the nickname of a wealthy Bagshot man (and secret highwayman) called William Davis, (1627-90), from his habit of paying with gold coins – (See below).
News Source: Kent Live
William Davis (1627 - 90)
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
William Davies was a famous highwayman, known as the 'Golden Farmer,' from his habitually paying with gold coin to avoid identification of his plunder. It is said he often let his victims keep their jewels and other valuables.
He was born in Wrexham, Denbighshire in 1627, but moved in early life to Sudbury in Gloucestershire, where he married the daughter of a wealthy innkeeper and had, by her, eighteen children. He moved his family to Bagshot on the Surrey-Berkshire border where he became a successful farmer until the last month of his life, but used this trade as a mere cloak. For he had early taken to the road and robbed persons returning from cattle fairs or travelling to pay rent, mainly on Bagshot Heath but also as far afield as Salisbury Plain. He was dexterous in gaining information and his character was above suspicion.
Initially operating alone, Davies became a master of disguise and, at one time, robbed his own landlord of the annual rent money just collected from him. He later became the captain and leader of a large gang, among whom was Thomas Sympson, alias 'Old Mobb,' born at Romsey in Hampshire, who robbed for forty-five years with no other companion than the 'Golden Farmer.' Davies robbed the Duchess of Albemarle in her coach on Salisbury Plain, after a single-handed victory over her postilion, coachman and two footmen. He took three diamond rings and a gold watch, besides reproaching her for painting her face and being niggardly. Between Gloucester and Worcester, he robbed Sir Thomas Day of £60, after enticing him into a declaration that the county would make good any money lost on the highway if "betwixt sun and sun".
Davies had begun this career as an experiment, after the King's death in 1649, when twenty-two years old. He gained something of a Robin-Hood reputation over the years, with some of his haul finding its way under the doors of local poor families. However, his wife never had any suspicion of his illegal activities and, in all the ordinary relations of life, he was eminently respectable. His charming manners enabled him to secure the fidelity of accomplices and attract the confidence of his victims.
The ‘Golden Farmer’ retired from his profession for a few years, but was tempted back to the highway, in hope of making up a large sum for the purchase of land adjacent to his property. He had fallen out of practice and was recognised. Soon afterwards, he was discovered in Salisbury Court in Fleet Street (Westminster) which was, at that time, a kind of sanctuary. He had had a narrow escape and shot a pursuing butcher. Being apprehended, he was committed to Newgate Prison, tried for the murder at the Old Bailey Sessions of 11th-17th December 1690 and his previous crimes became known. He was condemned to be hanged at the end of Salisbury Court (instead of Tyburn, as usual), where he had shot the butcher. He died on 22nd December 1690, aged 63, and was afterwards hung in chains on Bagshot Heath. He had left affectionate messages for 'Old Mobb,' who was suspected of having betrayed him. Mobb was hanged at Tyburn on Friday 30th May 1691. His notoriety prompted many 18th century pubs to honour him in their name/sign.
Edited from Leslie Stephen's 'Dictionary of National Biography' (1888)
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
William Davies was a famous highwayman, known as the 'Golden Farmer,' from his habitually paying with gold coin to avoid identification of his plunder. It is said he often let his victims keep their jewels and other valuables.
He was born in Wrexham, Denbighshire in 1627, but moved in early life to Sudbury in Gloucestershire, where he married the daughter of a wealthy innkeeper and had, by her, eighteen children. He moved his family to Bagshot on the Surrey-Berkshire border where he became a successful farmer until the last month of his life, but used this trade as a mere cloak. For he had early taken to the road and robbed persons returning from cattle fairs or travelling to pay rent, mainly on Bagshot Heath but also as far afield as Salisbury Plain. He was dexterous in gaining information and his character was above suspicion.
Initially operating alone, Davies became a master of disguise and, at one time, robbed his own landlord of the annual rent money just collected from him. He later became the captain and leader of a large gang, among whom was Thomas Sympson, alias 'Old Mobb,' born at Romsey in Hampshire, who robbed for forty-five years with no other companion than the 'Golden Farmer.' Davies robbed the Duchess of Albemarle in her coach on Salisbury Plain, after a single-handed victory over her postilion, coachman and two footmen. He took three diamond rings and a gold watch, besides reproaching her for painting her face and being niggardly. Between Gloucester and Worcester, he robbed Sir Thomas Day of £60, after enticing him into a declaration that the county would make good any money lost on the highway if "betwixt sun and sun".
Davies had begun this career as an experiment, after the King's death in 1649, when twenty-two years old. He gained something of a Robin-Hood reputation over the years, with some of his haul finding its way under the doors of local poor families. However, his wife never had any suspicion of his illegal activities and, in all the ordinary relations of life, he was eminently respectable. His charming manners enabled him to secure the fidelity of accomplices and attract the confidence of his victims.
The ‘Golden Farmer’ retired from his profession for a few years, but was tempted back to the highway, in hope of making up a large sum for the purchase of land adjacent to his property. He had fallen out of practice and was recognised. Soon afterwards, he was discovered in Salisbury Court in Fleet Street (Westminster) which was, at that time, a kind of sanctuary. He had had a narrow escape and shot a pursuing butcher. Being apprehended, he was committed to Newgate Prison, tried for the murder at the Old Bailey Sessions of 11th-17th December 1690 and his previous crimes became known. He was condemned to be hanged at the end of Salisbury Court (instead of Tyburn, as usual), where he had shot the butcher. He died on 22nd December 1690, aged 63, and was afterwards hung in chains on Bagshot Heath. He had left affectionate messages for 'Old Mobb,' who was suspected of having betrayed him. Mobb was hanged at Tyburn on Friday 30th May 1691. His notoriety prompted many 18th century pubs to honour him in their name/sign.
Edited from Leslie Stephen's 'Dictionary of National Biography' (1888)
24 July 2020 (18:37) - Sutton-in-Ashfield fire: Woman arrested after fire at flats
A woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire led to a number of flats being evacuated. The blaze started at Leamington Hall flats, Stuart Street, Sutton-in-Ashfield, at about 18:37 BST on Friday. A spokesperson for Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service added: "Crews from Ashfield Station, Mansfield Station and Alfreton Station attended a flat fire on Stuart Street in Sutton-in-Ashfield. Crews used three jets and six breathing apparatus at the incident."
Detective Sergeant Dave Prest, who is leading the investigation, said: “Police and firefighters were called to the scene and a number of flats were evacuated. Damage was caused to some of the flats but all residents were accounted for and thankfully no one was seriously hurt. Ashfield District Council were also called to the scene to arrange for alternative accommodation for displaced residents. A 43-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent in connection with the incident. She has also received treatment at King’s Mill Hospital for smoke inhalation.” Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Nottinghamshire Police.
19th century Leamington Hall is a building that has had many names. In L. Lindley’s “History of Sutton in Ashfield” published in 1907, it is then called Providence House. At that time it was “in the occupation of Mr. T. C. Barratt. It used to he called "Leamington Hall" and "Sherwood House." Previous residents:—Mr Raymond Radford, Mr. A. H. Bonser, J.P., Mr. H Turner, Mr. Harold Bonser, and Mr. Morrison.” It appeared on the OS map surveyed in 1877-8 (published 1886) as Sherwood House, and so must pre-date this if its original name was Leamington Hall.
News Source: BBC News
Detective Sergeant Dave Prest, who is leading the investigation, said: “Police and firefighters were called to the scene and a number of flats were evacuated. Damage was caused to some of the flats but all residents were accounted for and thankfully no one was seriously hurt. Ashfield District Council were also called to the scene to arrange for alternative accommodation for displaced residents. A 43-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent in connection with the incident. She has also received treatment at King’s Mill Hospital for smoke inhalation.” Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Nottinghamshire Police.
19th century Leamington Hall is a building that has had many names. In L. Lindley’s “History of Sutton in Ashfield” published in 1907, it is then called Providence House. At that time it was “in the occupation of Mr. T. C. Barratt. It used to he called "Leamington Hall" and "Sherwood House." Previous residents:—Mr Raymond Radford, Mr. A. H. Bonser, J.P., Mr. H Turner, Mr. Harold Bonser, and Mr. Morrison.” It appeared on the OS map surveyed in 1877-8 (published 1886) as Sherwood House, and so must pre-date this if its original name was Leamington Hall.
News Source: BBC News
Near Miss
23 July 2020 (18:31) - Fire at garage near Penarth school thought to be deliberate
23 July 2020 (18:31) - Fire at garage near Penarth school thought to be deliberate
Firefighters from Penarth station were called to deal with, what is thought to be, a ‘deliberate’ fire at a privately-owned garage near Headlands School in Penarth yesterday evening. The fire took place at St Augustine’s Crescent, despite previous reports the fire happened at the school. Pictures taken of the fire show significant damage caused to the garage.
A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “At approximately 6.31pm on Thursday the 23rd of July, 2020, we received reports of a fire on [St Augustine’s Crescent], Penarth. Crews from Penarth station attended the scene and extinguished the fire. The incident concluded at approximately 7.44pm. The supposed cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate."
The fire was very near to the old stable building at what is now Headlands School. The stable originally served the Penarth Hotel which, together with the stables, was built in 1868.
News Source: Penarth Times
A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “At approximately 6.31pm on Thursday the 23rd of July, 2020, we received reports of a fire on [St Augustine’s Crescent], Penarth. Crews from Penarth station attended the scene and extinguished the fire. The incident concluded at approximately 7.44pm. The supposed cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate."
The fire was very near to the old stable building at what is now Headlands School. The stable originally served the Penarth Hotel which, together with the stables, was built in 1868.
News Source: Penarth Times
Listing Details
Entry Name: Headlands School
Listing Date: 21 January 1993 Last Amended: 21 January 1993 Grade: II Source: Cadw Source ID: 13358 Building Class: Education Location: At bend in road near junction with John Street. Aligned roughly NE-SW with entrance front facing NW. County: Vale of Glamorgan Community: Penarth Community: Penarth Built-Up Area: Penarth Traditional County: Glamorgan |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.4429 / 51°26'34"N Longitude: -3.1671 / 3°10'1"W OS Eastings: 318980 OS Northings: 172192 OS Grid: ST189721 Mapcode National: GBR HY.NB2Z Mapcode Global: VH6FF.2Z0R Plus Code: 9C3RCRVM+55 |
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The building was built 1868 as 'Penarth Hotel' by Taff Vale Railway Company at a cost £27,000. It has similarities with Marine Buildings in Dock Road, which suggest possibly the same (unknown) architect was involved. The hotel was never a commercial success, with staff usually outnumbering guests. After the First World War, it was bought and presented to the Trustees of the National Children's Home and Orphanage by the widow of Major J A Gibbs in memory of her husband who was killed during the War. The official opening was in July 1921. The purpose of the building was to educate and train boys for naval service. It was known as the J A Gibbs Memorial Home and could accommodate 120. A ship’s mast and rigging were installed in the grounds of the home, allowing nautical skills such as signalling to be practiced on dry land.
In 1936, the home became an Approved School for “delinquent boys” aged from 10 to 13, placed there by magistrates. By then known as the Headlands School, the establishment housed 95 boys. By the 1970s the number of places at Headlands had fallen to 55.
Following the abolition of Approved Schools in 1973, the establishment became a Community Home with Education (CHE) under the control of Glamorgan County Council, but closed in the early 1980s. Although the old hotel (now Grade II listed) was closed up for many years, other parts of the site, including the original stables buildings, have continued to be developed by NCH (now Action for Children). Headlands School now provides support for children aged 8 to 19 who have experienced early developmental trauma and those young people with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Only a small part of the hotel building is still in use. In the early 2000’s the building was often used for scenes in Doctor Who, particularly in the episode “The Unquiet Dead”.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The building was built 1868 as 'Penarth Hotel' by Taff Vale Railway Company at a cost £27,000. It has similarities with Marine Buildings in Dock Road, which suggest possibly the same (unknown) architect was involved. The hotel was never a commercial success, with staff usually outnumbering guests. After the First World War, it was bought and presented to the Trustees of the National Children's Home and Orphanage by the widow of Major J A Gibbs in memory of her husband who was killed during the War. The official opening was in July 1921. The purpose of the building was to educate and train boys for naval service. It was known as the J A Gibbs Memorial Home and could accommodate 120. A ship’s mast and rigging were installed in the grounds of the home, allowing nautical skills such as signalling to be practiced on dry land.
In 1936, the home became an Approved School for “delinquent boys” aged from 10 to 13, placed there by magistrates. By then known as the Headlands School, the establishment housed 95 boys. By the 1970s the number of places at Headlands had fallen to 55.
Following the abolition of Approved Schools in 1973, the establishment became a Community Home with Education (CHE) under the control of Glamorgan County Council, but closed in the early 1980s. Although the old hotel (now Grade II listed) was closed up for many years, other parts of the site, including the original stables buildings, have continued to be developed by NCH (now Action for Children). Headlands School now provides support for children aged 8 to 19 who have experienced early developmental trauma and those young people with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Conditions. Only a small part of the hotel building is still in use. In the early 2000’s the building was often used for scenes in Doctor Who, particularly in the episode “The Unquiet Dead”.
23 July 2020 (17:15) - Fire at famous landmark building in Tewkesbury being treated as arson
A fire at one of Tewkesbury’s most famous buildings is being treated as arson. It happened at the disused Healing’s Mill in Quay Street on Thursday July 23. Firefighters were there from 5.15pm to 6.20pm. A spokeswoman for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said nobody was injured in the incident, which involved rubbish being on fire. She said the blaze was being treated as suspicious and the police had been informed.
The mill is arguably Tewkesbury’s second most famous building. On the banks of the River Avon and off Quay Street, it is probably the second biggest building in the town, behind only Tewkesbury Abbey. It dominates the landscape behind High Street and next to the Severn Ham, with its redbrick construction towering into the sky. But it has not been used since the mill closed in 2006 and it is in a very poor condition. One part of the site, off Back of Avon, appears to be sinking into the river. And in recent years there has been a big hole in the roof of one of the main buildings and a mixture of broken and boarded up windows at what has been regarded as an eyesore site.
Last year, the borough council said it planned to use some of the £2million it had been awarded by the Government to bring the mill back to life. The authority had been successful in its bid for a share of £95million of government funding, after achieving ‘High Streets Heritage Action Zone’ status. Council bosses planned to put the money into a range of projects, which they said would collectively regenerate Tewkesbury through investment into its historic fabric. Their aspirations included work to improve the public realm and open spaces, improving links from High Street to the river, making improvements to shop fronts and helping to facilitate the revival of some of the historic buildings such as Healing’s Mill.
The massive Grade II listed Healings Mill complex was built for Samuel Healing in 1865. It did not start out that big, but parts were added over the years and it grew into a sprawling tangle of different aged buildings. The original 1865 buildings survive today.
When built, it was considered to be the largest and most modern flour mill in the world, producing 25 sacks of flour an hour in 1892. It has had, in the course of its history, three means of transport in and out of it. It had road access via a handsome cast-iron bridge, rail access via the Tewkesbury to Upton-upon-Severn railway line, and canal / river barge access via the Avon. Barges were used right up until 1998, as the mill had two barges named Chaceley and Tirley which transported grain to the mill from Avonmouth and Sharpness.
The mill was purchased by Allied Mills in the 1970s, and was completely refurbished and fitted out with brand new machinery. It was in turn taken over by ADM Milling, but in 2006 they announced the closure of the mill and the loss of around 40 jobs. It milled flour for the last time on October 20th, 2006, ending 140 years of milling on that site.
News Source: Gloucestershire Live
The mill is arguably Tewkesbury’s second most famous building. On the banks of the River Avon and off Quay Street, it is probably the second biggest building in the town, behind only Tewkesbury Abbey. It dominates the landscape behind High Street and next to the Severn Ham, with its redbrick construction towering into the sky. But it has not been used since the mill closed in 2006 and it is in a very poor condition. One part of the site, off Back of Avon, appears to be sinking into the river. And in recent years there has been a big hole in the roof of one of the main buildings and a mixture of broken and boarded up windows at what has been regarded as an eyesore site.
Last year, the borough council said it planned to use some of the £2million it had been awarded by the Government to bring the mill back to life. The authority had been successful in its bid for a share of £95million of government funding, after achieving ‘High Streets Heritage Action Zone’ status. Council bosses planned to put the money into a range of projects, which they said would collectively regenerate Tewkesbury through investment into its historic fabric. Their aspirations included work to improve the public realm and open spaces, improving links from High Street to the river, making improvements to shop fronts and helping to facilitate the revival of some of the historic buildings such as Healing’s Mill.
The massive Grade II listed Healings Mill complex was built for Samuel Healing in 1865. It did not start out that big, but parts were added over the years and it grew into a sprawling tangle of different aged buildings. The original 1865 buildings survive today.
When built, it was considered to be the largest and most modern flour mill in the world, producing 25 sacks of flour an hour in 1892. It has had, in the course of its history, three means of transport in and out of it. It had road access via a handsome cast-iron bridge, rail access via the Tewkesbury to Upton-upon-Severn railway line, and canal / river barge access via the Avon. Barges were used right up until 1998, as the mill had two barges named Chaceley and Tirley which transported grain to the mill from Avonmouth and Sharpness.
The mill was purchased by Allied Mills in the 1970s, and was completely refurbished and fitted out with brand new machinery. It was in turn taken over by ADM Milling, but in 2006 they announced the closure of the mill and the loss of around 40 jobs. It milled flour for the last time on October 20th, 2006, ending 140 years of milling on that site.
News Source: Gloucestershire Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: Healings Flour Mill and Warehouses
Listing Date: 28 March 2019 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1461284 Location: Tewkesbury, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 County: Gloucestershire District: Tewkesbury Civil Parish: Tewkesbury Built-Up Area: Tewkesbury Traditional County: Gloucestershire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Gloucestershire |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.9952 / 51°59'42"N Longitude: -2.1584 / 2°9'30"W OS Eastings: 389220 OS Northings: 232984 OS Grid: SO892329 Mapcode National: GBR 1JK.TBW Mapcode Global: VH93T.J3ST Plus Code: 9C3VXRWR+3J |
23 July 2020 (16:05*) - Classroom gutted in fire at Lincolnshire school
A school classroom and its contents have been destroyed in a fire. Three fire crews from Lincoln and Sleaford attended Coleby Primary School, in Rectory Lane, just after 4pm on Thursday, July 23 and extinguished the fire. A shed, two cylinders and a wheelie bin at a neighbouring property were also damaged and there was smoke damage to the rest of the school, which is about six miles south of Lincoln. Residents were advised to keep their windows and doors shut during the incident.
Lincolnshire Fire And Rescue tweeted the following details about the fire: "Severe fire damage to one classroom and contents, overhead cabling, one wooden shed and contents including two cylinders and one wheelie bin. Light smoke damage to reminder of school." The fire service added: "This was caused by hot ashes from controlled burning put into wheelie bin which burned through." Firefighters brought the blaze under control with with the help of hoses, thermal imaging cameras and a Positive Pressure Ventilation system.
The school was built as a Parochial School in 1854 and later enlarged, as can be seen from the change in brick colour in the picture below.
News Source: Lincolnshire Live
Lincolnshire Fire And Rescue tweeted the following details about the fire: "Severe fire damage to one classroom and contents, overhead cabling, one wooden shed and contents including two cylinders and one wheelie bin. Light smoke damage to reminder of school." The fire service added: "This was caused by hot ashes from controlled burning put into wheelie bin which burned through." Firefighters brought the blaze under control with with the help of hoses, thermal imaging cameras and a Positive Pressure Ventilation system.
The school was built as a Parochial School in 1854 and later enlarged, as can be seen from the change in brick colour in the picture below.
News Source: Lincolnshire Live
22 July 2020 (19:55*) - Desborough rallies for Lucy after devastating tea room fire
The Desborough community is rallying to support those affected by a fire in Lucy's Tea Room. Firefighters from Desborough, Kettering and Corby were called to the blaze in Buckwell Close just before 8pm yesterday (Wednesday). A spokesman for Northants Fire said the blaze is thought to have been caused by an electrical fault and has devastated Lucy's Tea Room, run by Lucy Clements.
In a post on Lucy's Tea Room Facebook page, Lucy said: "As most have probably heard by now we had a fire at the shop yesterday. It was bad. Nothing really salvageable in kitchen or first room. I am truly heartbroken beyond words." Lucy said she had built the business over 14 years and has been through a difficult year.
To support Lucy, her friend Kerry Stratford at the bar Number 76 have started a fundraiser which has already raised £1,664 with a £2,000 target. Kerry's business partner, Michaela Marlow said: "It's devastating, she's had a difficult year. It's not been the best and obviously with Covid-19 it's been a struggle. We've been trying to help as much as we can to get her back on her feet. We have got a raffle we are going to do to raise some money and we have a Go Fund Me page and a tub in the bar for elderly people who might not want to use Go Fund Me. We've already had people coming in today and donating which is nice."
The building's owner, Derek Veevers, said: "She's obviously absolutely gutted. I spoke to her this morning and she's in absolute bits. People have been very, very kind and they've set up a thing to try and get some cash for her."
The shop suffered fire and smoke damage, and resident of the property upstairs, Dougie Garcia, said he had suffered smoke damage. On the tea room Facebook page, Lucy said: "The shop will obviously be closed for the foreseeable future. But trust me I will build my baby back up. I have to. Friends and family last night were amazing." Lucy thanked staff from The George and the firefighters and police. She said: "Lucy's Tea Room will eventually bounce back."
Constructed from the striking iron stone and considered to be of architectural and historic merit, the Tea Room lies within Desborough Conservation Area and dates from around 1700. The Appraisal document says the following: “The group of significant buildings located to the south of the conservation area, (Nos. 81 - 83 High Street, including The George Public House), is deemed to be of significance through being remnants of the historic core of the town and being characteristic of the local vernacular.
News Source: Northamptonshire Telegraph
In a post on Lucy's Tea Room Facebook page, Lucy said: "As most have probably heard by now we had a fire at the shop yesterday. It was bad. Nothing really salvageable in kitchen or first room. I am truly heartbroken beyond words." Lucy said she had built the business over 14 years and has been through a difficult year.
To support Lucy, her friend Kerry Stratford at the bar Number 76 have started a fundraiser which has already raised £1,664 with a £2,000 target. Kerry's business partner, Michaela Marlow said: "It's devastating, she's had a difficult year. It's not been the best and obviously with Covid-19 it's been a struggle. We've been trying to help as much as we can to get her back on her feet. We have got a raffle we are going to do to raise some money and we have a Go Fund Me page and a tub in the bar for elderly people who might not want to use Go Fund Me. We've already had people coming in today and donating which is nice."
The building's owner, Derek Veevers, said: "She's obviously absolutely gutted. I spoke to her this morning and she's in absolute bits. People have been very, very kind and they've set up a thing to try and get some cash for her."
The shop suffered fire and smoke damage, and resident of the property upstairs, Dougie Garcia, said he had suffered smoke damage. On the tea room Facebook page, Lucy said: "The shop will obviously be closed for the foreseeable future. But trust me I will build my baby back up. I have to. Friends and family last night were amazing." Lucy thanked staff from The George and the firefighters and police. She said: "Lucy's Tea Room will eventually bounce back."
Constructed from the striking iron stone and considered to be of architectural and historic merit, the Tea Room lies within Desborough Conservation Area and dates from around 1700. The Appraisal document says the following: “The group of significant buildings located to the south of the conservation area, (Nos. 81 - 83 High Street, including The George Public House), is deemed to be of significance through being remnants of the historic core of the town and being characteristic of the local vernacular.
News Source: Northamptonshire Telegraph
22 July 2020 (17:49) - Blaze tears through farmhouse in Castlemilk, Glasgow
A fire has broken out on a farm in Castlemilk. Large clouds of smoke can be seen in the sky as the blaze tears through the property on Rev'd MacAuley Road, next to Carmunnock Road. Emergency crews rushed to the scene at around 5.50pm and remain there as they wrestle the fire, which started in a derelict building.
A Scottish Fire and Rescure Service spokeswoman said: "We received a call at around 5.49pm today for a fire in a derelict building. We mobilised four applicances to the scene and they remain there. There are no reports of any casualties."
The fire was at Mid Netherton Farmhouse, which was built in the late 18th century.
News Source: The Herald
A Scottish Fire and Rescure Service spokeswoman said: "We received a call at around 5.49pm today for a fire in a derelict building. We mobilised four applicances to the scene and they remain there. There are no reports of any casualties."
The fire was at Mid Netherton Farmhouse, which was built in the late 18th century.
News Source: The Herald
22 July 2020 (12:48) - Six fire engines and 40 firefighters called to a fire at a pub in Southwark
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters have been called to a fire at a pub on Stamford Street in Southwark. Part of the first floor and the extraction system from the first floor to the roof of the building is alight.
Station Commander David Bracewell, who is at the scene said:”Firefighters are making steady progress at the scene of a fire at a pub. The road has been closed between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Roundabout whilst crews work to bring the fire under control, so we urge locals to avoid the area.” The Brigade was called at 12.48pm . Fire crews from Lambeth, Dockhead, Soho, Brixton and Whitechapel fire stations are at the scene.
The incident comes less than three weeks after the pub reopened on 4 July following 105 days of enforced closure due to coronavirus after Prime Minister Boris Johnson called last orders in pubs on 20 March. While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the pub – which was a finalist in the 2017 GBPA Best for Sport category – will remain closed until further notice. A statement on its Facebook page the morning after the blaze read:
“We are sad to announce that The Thirsty Bear will be closed until further notice due to the outbreak of a fire in our premises yesterday,” the post read. No one was injured and the building [was] successfully vacated but substantial damage has been caused. The safety of our employees and customers is paramount to us and we will only re-open once we are confident that it's safe to do so. We want to take this opportunity to thank all of the emergency services that attended site and assisted in bringing the fire under control. You are all heroes to us and we can never thank you enough for running into situations that others are running away from.”
The fire was at The Thirsty Bear pub, known until 2012 as the Stamford Arms. It opened in 1839 and Charles Kemp was the first landlord.
News Source: UKNIP247
Station Commander David Bracewell, who is at the scene said:”Firefighters are making steady progress at the scene of a fire at a pub. The road has been closed between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Roundabout whilst crews work to bring the fire under control, so we urge locals to avoid the area.” The Brigade was called at 12.48pm . Fire crews from Lambeth, Dockhead, Soho, Brixton and Whitechapel fire stations are at the scene.
The incident comes less than three weeks after the pub reopened on 4 July following 105 days of enforced closure due to coronavirus after Prime Minister Boris Johnson called last orders in pubs on 20 March. While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the pub – which was a finalist in the 2017 GBPA Best for Sport category – will remain closed until further notice. A statement on its Facebook page the morning after the blaze read:
“We are sad to announce that The Thirsty Bear will be closed until further notice due to the outbreak of a fire in our premises yesterday,” the post read. No one was injured and the building [was] successfully vacated but substantial damage has been caused. The safety of our employees and customers is paramount to us and we will only re-open once we are confident that it's safe to do so. We want to take this opportunity to thank all of the emergency services that attended site and assisted in bringing the fire under control. You are all heroes to us and we can never thank you enough for running into situations that others are running away from.”
The fire was at The Thirsty Bear pub, known until 2012 as the Stamford Arms. It opened in 1839 and Charles Kemp was the first landlord.
News Source: UKNIP247
Near Miss
21 July 2020 (20:56) - Small woodland fire extinguished on Norris Castle Estate
21 July 2020 (20:56) - Small woodland fire extinguished on Norris Castle Estate
Twice in the last week the Fire Service have been called out to East Cowes esplanade to reports of fires, says Isle of Wight councillor for East Cowes, Karl Love. After they were called to the second fire on the esplanade this week, the local councillor shares a plea for people to not start fires.
One appliance from East Cowes was mobilised to Norris Castle Estate Woods shortly before 21:00. Due to the retained firefighters’ quick response to the area, it meant they were able to contain the fire and extinguish it before it could cause any further damage. They used buckets of water to dampen down the area and used tools to turn the ground over to rid any hot spots.
Cllr Love said, “Yet another fire reported along East Cowes Esplanade, this time in Norris Castle land. It is total madness to light a fire in or near the woods and especially at this time of year. I walk the area most evenings and I shall be extending my walk around the area and reporting any fires. The estates of Norris Castle and Spring Hill are historic areas and private property. The woodland is an ancient woods and it’s so important to protect our town’s Heritage.”
Cllr Love continued, “I’ve contacted our local community Police asking them to step up patrols in the evenings. It would only take a few burning embers to land in a dry pile of leaves or worse still, on the castle, and it could be lost forever. I’m appealing to young people to please not light fires. I’m aware that some of the fires on the beach have been lit by adults. This is a public beach adjacent to the woods and could cause significant damage or harm to people. Please don’t light fires on the beach.”
Originally built in 1799 by James Wyatt for Lord Henry Seymour, Norris Castle is a Grade I listed building.
News Source: On the Wight
One appliance from East Cowes was mobilised to Norris Castle Estate Woods shortly before 21:00. Due to the retained firefighters’ quick response to the area, it meant they were able to contain the fire and extinguish it before it could cause any further damage. They used buckets of water to dampen down the area and used tools to turn the ground over to rid any hot spots.
Cllr Love said, “Yet another fire reported along East Cowes Esplanade, this time in Norris Castle land. It is total madness to light a fire in or near the woods and especially at this time of year. I walk the area most evenings and I shall be extending my walk around the area and reporting any fires. The estates of Norris Castle and Spring Hill are historic areas and private property. The woodland is an ancient woods and it’s so important to protect our town’s Heritage.”
Cllr Love continued, “I’ve contacted our local community Police asking them to step up patrols in the evenings. It would only take a few burning embers to land in a dry pile of leaves or worse still, on the castle, and it could be lost forever. I’m appealing to young people to please not light fires. I’m aware that some of the fires on the beach have been lit by adults. This is a public beach adjacent to the woods and could cause significant damage or harm to people. Please don’t light fires on the beach.”
Originally built in 1799 by James Wyatt for Lord Henry Seymour, Norris Castle is a Grade I listed building.
News Source: On the Wight
Listing Details
Entry Name: Norris Castle
Listing Date: 17 August 1951 Last Amended: 6 January 2017 Grade: I Source: Historic England Source ID: 1267468 English Heritage Legacy ID: 418622 Location: East Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO32 County: Isle of Wight Civil Parish: East Cowes Traditional County: Hampshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Isle of Wight Church of England Parish: East Cowest St James Church of England Diocese: Portsmouth |
Coordinates
Latitude: 50.7631 / 50°45'47"N Longitude: -1.2705 / 1°16'13"W OS Eastings: 451544 OS Northings: 96196 OS Grid: SZ515961 Mapcode National: GBR 89S.3M2 Mapcode Global: FRA 8772.6VX Plus Code: 9C2WQP7H+6Q |
20 July 2020 (17:30*) - Small fire at Sandown hotel following break in
Firefighters have been called to a disused hotel in Sandown this evening (Monday) following reports of the smell of burning. The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service mobilised appliances from Sandown and Shanklin to The Esplanade Hotel at around 17:30. Crews are using hose reels to tackle a small fire inside the building. Local police officers are also in attendance due to the suspicious nature of the incident.
The owner of the hotel has taken advice from Police and the fire service and will be securing the premises in the coming days. Sandown High Street and the Esplanade remain open to traffic. It has been confirmed that there were 2 seats of fire inside the building. Crews have since stood down from the incident.
The Esplanade Hotel, formerly known as the Seagrove Hotel, is an amalgam of five early Victorian seafront residences which were absorbed to form a 60 bedroom hotel with stunning views over Sandown Bay. The hotel lies within the Sandown Conservation Area.
News Source: Island Echo
The owner of the hotel has taken advice from Police and the fire service and will be securing the premises in the coming days. Sandown High Street and the Esplanade remain open to traffic. It has been confirmed that there were 2 seats of fire inside the building. Crews have since stood down from the incident.
The Esplanade Hotel, formerly known as the Seagrove Hotel, is an amalgam of five early Victorian seafront residences which were absorbed to form a 60 bedroom hotel with stunning views over Sandown Bay. The hotel lies within the Sandown Conservation Area.
News Source: Island Echo
Near Miss
20 July 2020 (15:51) - Bournemouth fire: Large blaze caused by 'cooking accident in beach hut'
20 July 2020 (15:51) - Bournemouth fire: Large blaze caused by 'cooking accident in beach hut'
A large fire which broke out on the seafront in Bournemouth was caused by a cooking accident in a beach hut, officials have said. Crews were called to West Undercliff at 3.51pm and found three beach huts and 100 metres of heath on the cliff face alight, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Brigade said.
Sunbathers were evacuated from the beach and it took multiple crews and a helicopter to bring the blaze under control.
A spokeswoman said it was understood the fire started in the beach hut when a camping stove was knocked over. She said the blaze had been brought under control by 5.30pm, although crews had remained at the scene damping down for a few hours more. No one was injured in the incident.
Dramatic footage and pictures posted on social media showed the fire burning up the cliff face, with plumes of black smoke visible from a distance. Local residents were asked to close their windows as a precaution, while Dorset Police set up a cordon around the scene. The force said on Twitter: "Please avoid the area of the West Cliff lift on Bournemouth’s West Cliff following a beach hut fire, which has spread to nearby beach huts and is moving up the cliff. A cordon is in place for the safety of members of the public. We are assisting with the cordon."
The fire was sweeping up the cliff face, at the top of which is Tollard Court. The building began in the 1870s as the three storey Tollard Royal Hotel on the cliff top. 1930 saw the addition of two more storeys includeding a domed solarium. The verdigris copper dome has since become a useful landmark for small craft using Poole Bay. In more recent years the hotel has been converted into flats whilst retaining it's very stylish art deco interior.
The hotel has associations with a crime case that gripped the nation. It was a nationwide manhunt for a vicious killer who had slaughtered a part-time actress in a London hotel and brutally murdered another woman in Bournemouth. On Saturday 6 July 1946 the subject of the manhunt, former RAF pilot Neville Heath, was arrested in the Tollard Royal Hotel, Bournemouth, where he had been staying, posing as Group Captain Rupert Brook. He was hanged for his crimes in the same year.
News Source: Yahoo! News
Sunbathers were evacuated from the beach and it took multiple crews and a helicopter to bring the blaze under control.
A spokeswoman said it was understood the fire started in the beach hut when a camping stove was knocked over. She said the blaze had been brought under control by 5.30pm, although crews had remained at the scene damping down for a few hours more. No one was injured in the incident.
Dramatic footage and pictures posted on social media showed the fire burning up the cliff face, with plumes of black smoke visible from a distance. Local residents were asked to close their windows as a precaution, while Dorset Police set up a cordon around the scene. The force said on Twitter: "Please avoid the area of the West Cliff lift on Bournemouth’s West Cliff following a beach hut fire, which has spread to nearby beach huts and is moving up the cliff. A cordon is in place for the safety of members of the public. We are assisting with the cordon."
The fire was sweeping up the cliff face, at the top of which is Tollard Court. The building began in the 1870s as the three storey Tollard Royal Hotel on the cliff top. 1930 saw the addition of two more storeys includeding a domed solarium. The verdigris copper dome has since become a useful landmark for small craft using Poole Bay. In more recent years the hotel has been converted into flats whilst retaining it's very stylish art deco interior.
The hotel has associations with a crime case that gripped the nation. It was a nationwide manhunt for a vicious killer who had slaughtered a part-time actress in a London hotel and brutally murdered another woman in Bournemouth. On Saturday 6 July 1946 the subject of the manhunt, former RAF pilot Neville Heath, was arrested in the Tollard Royal Hotel, Bournemouth, where he had been staying, posing as Group Captain Rupert Brook. He was hanged for his crimes in the same year.
News Source: Yahoo! News
20 July 2020 (08:33) - Large fire breaks out in terraced house in Broadwindsor
Fire broke out at The Music House in Broadwindsor Square around 8.30am this morning. 9 fire engines from Dorset & Wiltshire and Devon & Somerset are in attendance following a fire in a mezzanine cupboard. Thankfully no one has been injured. The cause of the fire is as yet undetermined.
The large response saw crews from Beaminster, two from Bridport, Charmouth, Lyme Regis and Dorchester attend, together with a support unit from Sherborne. Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also sent engines from Crewkerne, two from Chard and Yeovil, together with the aerial appliance from Yeovil. A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire affected the roof and second floor of a mid terraced property; firefighters were able to prevent it spreading to the neighbouring houses."
Shortly before 11am, it was confirmed that the fire was out and the incident was being scaled back to four engines and the aerial to allow further damping down and stripping back of roof tiles. "Volunteers from the British Red Cross emergency response team based at Springbourne fire station are attending to support the occupiers, who got out of the house safely and no injuries were reported," said the spokesman. “A fire investigation will be carried out later today but early indications are that it started accidentally." There is heavy traffic around the area due to the B3162 being blocked by emergency vehicles as crews work to extinguish the fire.
The late 19th century Music House is considered as an “Important Local Building” in the Netherbury and Broadwindsor Conservation Area. The building is also attached to the Grade II listed London House.
News Source: Dorset Echo
The large response saw crews from Beaminster, two from Bridport, Charmouth, Lyme Regis and Dorchester attend, together with a support unit from Sherborne. Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also sent engines from Crewkerne, two from Chard and Yeovil, together with the aerial appliance from Yeovil. A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire affected the roof and second floor of a mid terraced property; firefighters were able to prevent it spreading to the neighbouring houses."
Shortly before 11am, it was confirmed that the fire was out and the incident was being scaled back to four engines and the aerial to allow further damping down and stripping back of roof tiles. "Volunteers from the British Red Cross emergency response team based at Springbourne fire station are attending to support the occupiers, who got out of the house safely and no injuries were reported," said the spokesman. “A fire investigation will be carried out later today but early indications are that it started accidentally." There is heavy traffic around the area due to the B3162 being blocked by emergency vehicles as crews work to extinguish the fire.
The late 19th century Music House is considered as an “Important Local Building” in the Netherbury and Broadwindsor Conservation Area. The building is also attached to the Grade II listed London House.
News Source: Dorset Echo
19 July 2020 (23:30*) - Crews tackle fire at derelict building in Gainford
Crews tackled flames overnight after a derelict building caught fire on the A67 at Gainford. The fire had torn through two floors and the roof before firefighters from Darlington and Bishop Auckland arrived at the scene. Crews used two jets, one hose reel and an aerial ladder platform to tackle the flames. Witness said emergency vehicles blocked the road and police asked motorists to take an alternative route.
Gainford resident Debbie Atkinson rang emergency services immediately when she spotted the building on fire at around 11.30pm on Sunday, July 19th. She said: “We can see St Peter’s from our house and my daughter had just put the dog out and said it was on fire. It was well ablaze then. We went straight down there as we wanted to see if the house next door was okay.” Ms Atkinson added: “I’m not sorry it has gone because it has been an awful eyesore in the village for years. It was trouble for years. Everybody knew something like this was coming.” An investigation into the cause is underway.
The fire was in the remaining building of the former St Peter’s Approved School. The building is a Non-designated Heritage Asset and lies within the Gainford Conservation Area. On the 5th March 2016 arsonists destroyed one the buildings at the site, resulting in the partial demolition of the west wing. Plans to build 57 homes and convert the remaining frontage into flats were approved in January 2019, but in April 2019, Ruttle Plant and Kebbell Homes, the two companies involved which own different parts of the site, said the scheme was unviable. They blamed St Peter’s School’s past for hampering plans and they want it removed.
Villagers had heard “harrowing” reports of physical and sexual abuse which happened at St. Peter's over the years. Justin Stannard, representing both companies, told the parish council that plans to develop the site were “one thing, but actually being able to deliver it is something else”. He added: “One of the biggest hurdles we have been experiencing over the years is the history of the old school and how that taints any potential investment into any development schemes. People are uncomfortable with the past of the building itself.”
News Source: The Northern Echo
Gainford resident Debbie Atkinson rang emergency services immediately when she spotted the building on fire at around 11.30pm on Sunday, July 19th. She said: “We can see St Peter’s from our house and my daughter had just put the dog out and said it was on fire. It was well ablaze then. We went straight down there as we wanted to see if the house next door was okay.” Ms Atkinson added: “I’m not sorry it has gone because it has been an awful eyesore in the village for years. It was trouble for years. Everybody knew something like this was coming.” An investigation into the cause is underway.
The fire was in the remaining building of the former St Peter’s Approved School. The building is a Non-designated Heritage Asset and lies within the Gainford Conservation Area. On the 5th March 2016 arsonists destroyed one the buildings at the site, resulting in the partial demolition of the west wing. Plans to build 57 homes and convert the remaining frontage into flats were approved in January 2019, but in April 2019, Ruttle Plant and Kebbell Homes, the two companies involved which own different parts of the site, said the scheme was unviable. They blamed St Peter’s School’s past for hampering plans and they want it removed.
Villagers had heard “harrowing” reports of physical and sexual abuse which happened at St. Peter's over the years. Justin Stannard, representing both companies, told the parish council that plans to develop the site were “one thing, but actually being able to deliver it is something else”. He added: “One of the biggest hurdles we have been experiencing over the years is the history of the old school and how that taints any potential investment into any development schemes. People are uncomfortable with the past of the building itself.”
News Source: The Northern Echo
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
St Peter's Orphanage for Roman Catholic Boys was built in 1899 at Main Road, Gainford. The purpose-built premises could accommodate 300 boys, aged from 2 to 10 years at their date of admission. On 30th August, 1901, St Peter's was accredited for use as a Certified School, allowing it to receive boys boarded out by the workhouse authorities, who paid 6 shillings a week for each child they placed.
At the start of the Second World War, the boys at St Peter's were transferred to the St Mary's Home at Tudhoe, with the Gainford site then being used temporarily to house inmates evacuated from St Aidan's Approved School at Widnes. Approved schools were to cater for “all classes of neglected and delinquent children”. The term “delinquent” was specified as any young person under the age of 17 who was proved to have committed any offence. Although commonly referred to as a Borstal, they were modelled on ordinary boarding schools, from which it was relatively easy to leave without permission. This set approved schools apart from borstals, a tougher and more enclosed kind of youth prison.
On 1st April, 1940, St Peter's was itself accredited for use as an Approved School, taking up to 120 Roman Catholic boys aged below their 13th birthday at their date of admission. The School provided its inmates with training in carpentry, building and horticulture. The School was then managed by the Hexham and Newcastle Rescue Society.
In 1973, the establishment became St Peter's Community School — a Community Home with Education (CHE), run in conjunction with Teesside Borough Council. Due to financial pressures, the School was closed in 1984, with the building and land being sold to a local consortium for £130,000. The purchasers subsequently sold off some of the buildings and converted one wing, which was used as a nursing home for the elderly between 1986 and 1998. Since its closure, the main building was left standing empty.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
St Peter's Orphanage for Roman Catholic Boys was built in 1899 at Main Road, Gainford. The purpose-built premises could accommodate 300 boys, aged from 2 to 10 years at their date of admission. On 30th August, 1901, St Peter's was accredited for use as a Certified School, allowing it to receive boys boarded out by the workhouse authorities, who paid 6 shillings a week for each child they placed.
At the start of the Second World War, the boys at St Peter's were transferred to the St Mary's Home at Tudhoe, with the Gainford site then being used temporarily to house inmates evacuated from St Aidan's Approved School at Widnes. Approved schools were to cater for “all classes of neglected and delinquent children”. The term “delinquent” was specified as any young person under the age of 17 who was proved to have committed any offence. Although commonly referred to as a Borstal, they were modelled on ordinary boarding schools, from which it was relatively easy to leave without permission. This set approved schools apart from borstals, a tougher and more enclosed kind of youth prison.
On 1st April, 1940, St Peter's was itself accredited for use as an Approved School, taking up to 120 Roman Catholic boys aged below their 13th birthday at their date of admission. The School provided its inmates with training in carpentry, building and horticulture. The School was then managed by the Hexham and Newcastle Rescue Society.
In 1973, the establishment became St Peter's Community School — a Community Home with Education (CHE), run in conjunction with Teesside Borough Council. Due to financial pressures, the School was closed in 1984, with the building and land being sold to a local consortium for £130,000. The purchasers subsequently sold off some of the buildings and converted one wing, which was used as a nursing home for the elderly between 1986 and 1998. Since its closure, the main building was left standing empty.
19 July 2020 (p.m.*) - Fire crews rush to scene as huge blaze through Grade II listed school building in Oakes, Huddersfield
Fire crews rushed to the scene of a huge blaze at an old school building in Huddersfield this afternoon (July 19). Emergency services were in attendance, on Wellington Street and Oakes Road, as the incident sent huge plumes of smoke billowing into the air. Images of the fire show large flames coming from a number of windows in the Grade II listed building. The dilapidated former Oakes Board School, later known as Oakes County Junior School (1960s) was opened in 1878 and closed in 1974. It became Wellington Court residential home but has been vacant for many years.
The majority of the blaze appears to have taken place in a section to the north of the building, close to the school's tower. Fire crews are reportedly still on the scene after the incident was brought under control this evening. There is significant damage to large parts of the building, including large sections of the roof. The cause of the blaze is not yet known.
News Source: Yorkshire Live
The majority of the blaze appears to have taken place in a section to the north of the building, close to the school's tower. Fire crews are reportedly still on the scene after the incident was brought under control this evening. There is significant damage to large parts of the building, including large sections of the roof. The cause of the blaze is not yet known.
News Source: Yorkshire Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: Oakes School
Listing Date: 29 September 1978 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1229575 English Heritage Legacy ID: 404356 Location: Kirklees, HD3 County: Kirklees Electoral Ward/Division: Lindley Built-Up Area: Huddersfield Traditional County: Yorkshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): West Yorkshire Church of England Parish: Lindley St Stephen Church of England Diocese: Leeds |
Coordinates
Latitude: 53.655 / 53°39'18"N Longitude: -1.8234 / 1°49'24"W OS Eastings: 411770 OS Northings: 417628 OS Grid: SE117176 Mapcode National: GBR HVQ5.1H Mapcode Global: WHCB0.YDWB Plus Code: 9C5WM54G+2J |
18 July 2020 (23:23) - Enormous fire that destroyed historic Cambs mill 'set deliberately'
A fire that tore through the historic 16th century Hauxton Mill over the weekend has been deemed deliberately started by fire investigators and Cambridgeshire police. At 11.23pm on Saturday (July 18) crews were called to a fire near the A10 in Hauxton. Fire engines from Cambridge, Cottenham and Linton attended the incident located at the old mill. Firefighters arrived to find a well-developed fire involving a derelict two storey building. They extinguished the fire using hose reels. The fire was eventually put out by 4.10am, five hours later. Police and fire investigators inspected the wreckage over the next few days and have since established that arson was the cause of the fire.
Parts of the mill date back to the 16th century and are also Grade II listed, but the building has been derelict for some time. Most of the building that was damaged was the newer modern parts as well. There are development plans for the site which are not expected to change following the fire. Because the cause of the fire was deliberate, anyone with information about the incident is being asked to contact police by visiting www.cambs.police.uk to submit an online report or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Live
Parts of the mill date back to the 16th century and are also Grade II listed, but the building has been derelict for some time. Most of the building that was damaged was the newer modern parts as well. There are development plans for the site which are not expected to change following the fire. Because the cause of the fire was deliberate, anyone with information about the incident is being asked to contact police by visiting www.cambs.police.uk to submit an online report or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: Hauxton Watermill
Listing Date: 15 September 1975 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1225955 English Heritage Legacy ID: 422996 Location: Hauxton, South Cambridgeshire, Cambridgeshire, CB22 County: Cambridgeshire District: South Cambridgeshire Civil Parish: Hauxton Traditional County: Cambridgeshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cambridgeshire Church of England Parish: Hauxton St Edmund Church of England Diocese: Ely |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.1539 / 52°9'14"N Longitude: 0.0918 / 0°5'30"E OS Eastings: 543199 OS Northings: 252689 OS Grid: TL431526 Mapcode National: GBR L7V.S25 Mapcode Global: VHHKG.J4V4 Plus Code: 9F42533R+HM |
17 July 2020 (03:19) – How firefighting heroics - and luck - saved Blackpool’s Central Pier from destruction
The night sky lit up orange for miles around as flames ripped through a workshop and the waltzers ride at the 150-year-old attraction early this morning. And the chief in charge of the 70-or-so firefighters called to tackle the blaze by a security guard at 3.20am declared the iconic structure may have been engulfed had the weather not been so calm. Commander Mark Winder also praised the quick thinking of the first crew to arrive, saying: “There is no doubt that if those actions had not been as swift or as decisive then we could have been dealing with something significantly different."
The crew, White Watch from Blackpool's Forest Gate station, which arrived six minutes after being called, quickly radioed the control room for back-up before searching out hydrants specially installed along the Prom to protect key attractions from fiery disasters exactly like this. “It was really good decision-making by the initial firefighters who made the decision to call ten engines to the incident and get access to the hydrants," Mr Winder said. "Because they were able to get directly and close to the fire and attack it quickly we were able to bring it under control very quickly.” Mr Winder added: “Piers are a unique risk and present challenges for us, hence why we do a lot of training with the pier operators. With a pier, it depends very much on what is on fire and the strength and direction of the wind. Fortunately, this morning the tide was out which was helpful for us because we could deploy people onto the beach to fight the fire from below and on the pier as well."
Aerial pictures taken by the fire service drone showed the extent of the damage. The waltzers ride was left little more than a charred shell, with thermal images showing the heat melting through the pier’s wooden floor and onto the exposed sand below. A corrugated roofed workshop beside it had a hole burnt through its roof. And the Crazy Frog ride also appeared to have been damaged. Colin Hickson, another commander at the scene, said: “The fire has started within the workshop and spread to the waltzers and another ride. There is also damage to the main flooring of the pier.”
Gaynor Sedgwick, whose family owns all three of Blackpool’s piers, said: “Everyone responded so well to the fire and the fire service was unreal with its response, but we are going through the emotions with everything at the moment.” She declined to comment further. The pier, which had its entrance covered in scaffolding last month to allow for general maintenance work to be carried out, only opened around two weeks ago following the coronavirus lockdown.
Some 10 fire engines and crews were called to help after six 999 calls, including from a pier overnight watchman, raised the alarm. As blue lights descended on the seafront, the Prom was closed for half a mile between the Coral Island arcade, itself damaged in a fire last September, and Manchester Square. By 7am, the fire was under control. Crews took advantage of the low tide to blast the embers with water from below to stop the blaze taking hold once again.
Following a meeting between officials at 9.30am an investigation into the cause was opened. Lancashire Police said there was no immediate indication the blaze was suspicious. Councillor Tony Williams, who is a member of the Central Lancashire Fire Authority, said: “Our response times for Lancashire are some of the best in the UK if not Europe. The fact firefighters were there in six minutes is outstanding. It could have been the difference between controlling the fire so it was just in one area and it destroying the whole pier. Their fast actions and expertise could very well have saved the pier. Losing it would have been a travesty.” Coun Williams, who is the opposition leader at the Town Hall, added: “I feel sorry for the owners. I hope nobody loses their job over this.”
The historic tourist attraction is one of three piers in Blackpool and was the second to be built in the town in 1868. A 108ft Ferris wheel, known as Big Wheel, added in 1990. It suffered fires in 1964 and 1973, which destroyed its theatre buildings. North Pier was built in 1863 and is the oldest remaining example of a pier designed by celebrated seaside architect Eugenius Birch. It is Grade II listed and it suffered substantial storm damage in 2013. A third, South Pier, was erected in 1893.
News Source: Chorley Guardian
The crew, White Watch from Blackpool's Forest Gate station, which arrived six minutes after being called, quickly radioed the control room for back-up before searching out hydrants specially installed along the Prom to protect key attractions from fiery disasters exactly like this. “It was really good decision-making by the initial firefighters who made the decision to call ten engines to the incident and get access to the hydrants," Mr Winder said. "Because they were able to get directly and close to the fire and attack it quickly we were able to bring it under control very quickly.” Mr Winder added: “Piers are a unique risk and present challenges for us, hence why we do a lot of training with the pier operators. With a pier, it depends very much on what is on fire and the strength and direction of the wind. Fortunately, this morning the tide was out which was helpful for us because we could deploy people onto the beach to fight the fire from below and on the pier as well."
Aerial pictures taken by the fire service drone showed the extent of the damage. The waltzers ride was left little more than a charred shell, with thermal images showing the heat melting through the pier’s wooden floor and onto the exposed sand below. A corrugated roofed workshop beside it had a hole burnt through its roof. And the Crazy Frog ride also appeared to have been damaged. Colin Hickson, another commander at the scene, said: “The fire has started within the workshop and spread to the waltzers and another ride. There is also damage to the main flooring of the pier.”
Gaynor Sedgwick, whose family owns all three of Blackpool’s piers, said: “Everyone responded so well to the fire and the fire service was unreal with its response, but we are going through the emotions with everything at the moment.” She declined to comment further. The pier, which had its entrance covered in scaffolding last month to allow for general maintenance work to be carried out, only opened around two weeks ago following the coronavirus lockdown.
Some 10 fire engines and crews were called to help after six 999 calls, including from a pier overnight watchman, raised the alarm. As blue lights descended on the seafront, the Prom was closed for half a mile between the Coral Island arcade, itself damaged in a fire last September, and Manchester Square. By 7am, the fire was under control. Crews took advantage of the low tide to blast the embers with water from below to stop the blaze taking hold once again.
Following a meeting between officials at 9.30am an investigation into the cause was opened. Lancashire Police said there was no immediate indication the blaze was suspicious. Councillor Tony Williams, who is a member of the Central Lancashire Fire Authority, said: “Our response times for Lancashire are some of the best in the UK if not Europe. The fact firefighters were there in six minutes is outstanding. It could have been the difference between controlling the fire so it was just in one area and it destroying the whole pier. Their fast actions and expertise could very well have saved the pier. Losing it would have been a travesty.” Coun Williams, who is the opposition leader at the Town Hall, added: “I feel sorry for the owners. I hope nobody loses their job over this.”
The historic tourist attraction is one of three piers in Blackpool and was the second to be built in the town in 1868. A 108ft Ferris wheel, known as Big Wheel, added in 1990. It suffered fires in 1964 and 1973, which destroyed its theatre buildings. North Pier was built in 1863 and is the oldest remaining example of a pier designed by celebrated seaside architect Eugenius Birch. It is Grade II listed and it suffered substantial storm damage in 2013. A third, South Pier, was erected in 1893.
News Source: Chorley Guardian
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The success of the North Pier prompted the formation of the Blackpool South Jetty Company one year later in 1864. Impressed with the construction of Blackpool Pier (North Pier), the company hired the same contractor, Richard Laidlaw and Son of Glasgow for the project. This time, however, the company used the designs of Lieutenant-Colonel John Isaac Mawson rather than those of Eugenius Birch. When the pier was opened on 30 May 1868, it was 503 yards in length, 131 yards of which was a landing jetty for use at low tide. The first manager of the pier was Robert Bickerstaffe, coxswain of the first Blackpool lifeboat. Blackpool's lifeboat station is located next to Central Pier.
From the start, the new pier's emphasis was on fun rather than the genteel relaxation provided at North Pier. In the early days fun was provided mainly by dancing facilities, but in the 20th century, roller skating was introduced along with fairground rides and amusement machines. Steamboat excursions departed from the landing jetty as they did from North Pier. The dance halls became less popular after the Second World War and the facilities were adapted into a theatre, bars and amusement arcades by the 1970s. The pierhead theatre was modernised in 1986 and became known as "Peggy Sue's Showboat" and once again in 2016 when it was transformed into the "Pirates Bay" family bar. A striking addition came in 1990 when a 33 metre high Ferris wheel was erected, a half-scale reference to the Victorian attraction that had been part of the Winter Gardens complex a century earlier.
Central Pier is constructed mostly of cast iron with wooden decking. The piles on which the structure rests were driven using the screw pile method pioneered by Eugenius Birch. This involved twisting screw-tipped cast iron piles down through the sand until they hit bedrock. The materials and building techniques were similar to those used for North Pier but the structure of Central is a little more delicate in appearance. The pier has suffered relatively little damage save for fires in 1964 and 1973 which gutted the theatre buildings. The main structural alterations have been the removal of the obsolete 131 yards (120 m) low tide jetty in 1975 and the construction of the Ferris wheel in 1990. The addition of the wheel required the midsection of the pier to be strengthened to cope with the extra weight.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The success of the North Pier prompted the formation of the Blackpool South Jetty Company one year later in 1864. Impressed with the construction of Blackpool Pier (North Pier), the company hired the same contractor, Richard Laidlaw and Son of Glasgow for the project. This time, however, the company used the designs of Lieutenant-Colonel John Isaac Mawson rather than those of Eugenius Birch. When the pier was opened on 30 May 1868, it was 503 yards in length, 131 yards of which was a landing jetty for use at low tide. The first manager of the pier was Robert Bickerstaffe, coxswain of the first Blackpool lifeboat. Blackpool's lifeboat station is located next to Central Pier.
From the start, the new pier's emphasis was on fun rather than the genteel relaxation provided at North Pier. In the early days fun was provided mainly by dancing facilities, but in the 20th century, roller skating was introduced along with fairground rides and amusement machines. Steamboat excursions departed from the landing jetty as they did from North Pier. The dance halls became less popular after the Second World War and the facilities were adapted into a theatre, bars and amusement arcades by the 1970s. The pierhead theatre was modernised in 1986 and became known as "Peggy Sue's Showboat" and once again in 2016 when it was transformed into the "Pirates Bay" family bar. A striking addition came in 1990 when a 33 metre high Ferris wheel was erected, a half-scale reference to the Victorian attraction that had been part of the Winter Gardens complex a century earlier.
Central Pier is constructed mostly of cast iron with wooden decking. The piles on which the structure rests were driven using the screw pile method pioneered by Eugenius Birch. This involved twisting screw-tipped cast iron piles down through the sand until they hit bedrock. The materials and building techniques were similar to those used for North Pier but the structure of Central is a little more delicate in appearance. The pier has suffered relatively little damage save for fires in 1964 and 1973 which gutted the theatre buildings. The main structural alterations have been the removal of the obsolete 131 yards (120 m) low tide jetty in 1975 and the construction of the Ferris wheel in 1990. The addition of the wheel required the midsection of the pier to be strengthened to cope with the extra weight.
Near Miss
17 July 2020 (00:08) - Fire crews rush to battle huge Alexandria blaze
17 July 2020 (00:08) - Fire crews rush to battle huge Alexandria blaze
Fire crews rushed to the Vale last night after a huge blaze broke out in Alexandria, Dumbarton, in the early hours of this morning. Crews battled flames that could be seen across the area for more than two hours, with the incident involving a container and two cars on industrial ground close to the railway bridge on North Street.
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were alerted at 12.08am on Friday, July 17 to reports of a fire at North Street, Alexandria. Three fire appliances were mobilised to the area, where crews extinguished a fire involving a external container and two cars. There were no reported casualties. The scene was thereafter passed over to Police Scotland colleagues, and the final appliance left at 2.33am." Police Scotland meanwhile confirmed that they are investigating the blaze.
The fire was adjacent to No 85 North Street, a small cottage which dates back to at least 1860, and shown on the OS map for 1862.
News Source: Daily Record
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were alerted at 12.08am on Friday, July 17 to reports of a fire at North Street, Alexandria. Three fire appliances were mobilised to the area, where crews extinguished a fire involving a external container and two cars. There were no reported casualties. The scene was thereafter passed over to Police Scotland colleagues, and the final appliance left at 2.33am." Police Scotland meanwhile confirmed that they are investigating the blaze.
The fire was adjacent to No 85 North Street, a small cottage which dates back to at least 1860, and shown on the OS map for 1862.
News Source: Daily Record
13 July 2020 (17:27) - Crews called to extinguish Burnley derelict mill fire
Firefighters were called into action to tackle a fire at a derelict mill in Whittam Street yesterday afternoon (Monday). A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said: "Firefighters from Burnley were called to reports of a fire in the open near a derelict building on Whittam Street, Burnley. On arrival they found the fire involved a derelict mill. Two firefighters wore breathing apparatus and used a hose reel, triple extension ladder and ventilation unit to extinguish the fire. Fire crews were in attendance for approximately 30 minutes.”
The mill appears to have been known as Meadow Mill. It was built before 1844 and appears on the 1848 OS map marked just as “Cotton Mill”. It was already disused as a mill by 1890, and subsequently was used as a warehouse. It lies within The Weavers' Triangle, a modern name for an area on the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal that was once at the heart of Burnley's textile industry.
News Source: Pendle Today
The mill appears to have been known as Meadow Mill. It was built before 1844 and appears on the 1848 OS map marked just as “Cotton Mill”. It was already disused as a mill by 1890, and subsequently was used as a warehouse. It lies within The Weavers' Triangle, a modern name for an area on the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal that was once at the heart of Burnley's textile industry.
News Source: Pendle Today
13 July 2020 (12:05) - Fire at The Red Lion pub in Godalming town centre
A beauty salon owner has described the moment her premises filled with smoke after a fire broke out at a pub next door - forcing her to shut just hours after reopening.Six fire engines were sent to the scene in Godalming on Monday (July 13) following reports of a fire at The Red Lion in Mill Lane. Crews were called at around 12.05pm and they had left the scene by 2.35pm, according to Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). No injuries have been reported but up to 100 square metres of damage was caused. The fire will be a bitter blow for The Red Lion which only reopened on July 4, following a closure of more than three months.
For Jo Porter, who owns The Lime Tree beauty clinic in High Street, in a building attached to the pub, the fire came just hours after she had opened her doors for the first time since lockdown began. Ms Porter, 44, said: "It was our first day of opening today in around four months, I'm absolutely gutted. We were in the middle of doing clients and then the fire alarms started going off. Someone was shouting that there was smoke outside so we all rushed out. We had to shut the shop down for the rest of the day. I've never seen so much smoke in my life. The back area of the beauty salon is shared with the pub, so the smoke came through the back door."
She added: "I have just done all the decorating and preparing [to reopen] but now it smells atrocious and I am trying to get it cleared for tomorrow. The fire [service] and police came and they were fantastic. One community police officer - I didn't catch her name - was absolutely brilliant and got everyone organised out on the street."
Firefighters checked out her premises to ensure the salon was safe to re-enter so she could set to work cleaning up, in the hope of being able to reopen on Tuesday (July 14). A video from the scene captured footage of firefighters being lifted above the affected building on an aerial ladder platform. Six fire engines were sent to the incident alongside some specialist vehicles.
The Red Lion is made up of two buildings, a former hotel and attached Oddfellows Hall. The building is Grade II listed and has its origins in the 17th century. It lies within the Godalming Conservation Area.
News Source: Surrey Live
For Jo Porter, who owns The Lime Tree beauty clinic in High Street, in a building attached to the pub, the fire came just hours after she had opened her doors for the first time since lockdown began. Ms Porter, 44, said: "It was our first day of opening today in around four months, I'm absolutely gutted. We were in the middle of doing clients and then the fire alarms started going off. Someone was shouting that there was smoke outside so we all rushed out. We had to shut the shop down for the rest of the day. I've never seen so much smoke in my life. The back area of the beauty salon is shared with the pub, so the smoke came through the back door."
She added: "I have just done all the decorating and preparing [to reopen] but now it smells atrocious and I am trying to get it cleared for tomorrow. The fire [service] and police came and they were fantastic. One community police officer - I didn't catch her name - was absolutely brilliant and got everyone organised out on the street."
Firefighters checked out her premises to ensure the salon was safe to re-enter so she could set to work cleaning up, in the hope of being able to reopen on Tuesday (July 14). A video from the scene captured footage of firefighters being lifted above the affected building on an aerial ladder platform. Six fire engines were sent to the incident alongside some specialist vehicles.
The Red Lion is made up of two buildings, a former hotel and attached Oddfellows Hall. The building is Grade II listed and has its origins in the 17th century. It lies within the Godalming Conservation Area.
News Source: Surrey Live
Listing Details
Entry Name: The Red Lion Public House
Listing Date: 6 September 1990 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1190581 English Heritage Legacy ID: 291447 Location: Godalming, Waverley, Surrey, GU7 County: Surrey Civil Parish: Godalming Built-Up Area: Godalming Traditional County: Surrey Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Surrey Church of England Parish: Godalming Church of England Diocese: Guildford |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.1853 / 51°11'7"N Longitude: -0.6162 / 0°36'58"W OS Eastings: 496809 OS Northings: 143811 OS Grid: SU968438 Mapcode National: GBR FD2.M19 Mapcode Global: VHFVT.8GLN Plus Code: 9C3X59PM+4G |
12 July 2020 (22:55) - Man arrested after emergency services rushed to fire at Alexander Thomson Hotel
A 48-year-old man is due to appear in court today after a fire broke out at the Alexander Thomson Hotel yesterday evening. Police, ambulances and a fire crew were rushed to the scene along Argyle Street at around 10.55pm. Police have confirmed that the fire was extinguished and nobody was injured as a result.
A spokesman said: "Emergency services were called to a report of a small fire at a hotel on Argyle Street around 10.55pm on Sunday, 12 July. The fire was extinguished and nobody was injured as a result. A 48-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. He is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Monday, 13 July."
The Alexander Thomson Hotel together with adjacent public house is a Category B listed building, built in about 1897.
News Source: Glasgow Times
A spokesman said: "Emergency services were called to a report of a small fire at a hotel on Argyle Street around 10.55pm on Sunday, 12 July. The fire was extinguished and nobody was injured as a result. A 48-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. He is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court on Monday, 13 July."
The Alexander Thomson Hotel together with adjacent public house is a Category B listed building, built in about 1897.
News Source: Glasgow Times
Listing Details
Entry Name: 316-336 (Even Nos) Argyle Street, Blythswood Hotel Including "Duke of Wellington" Public House
Listing Date: 21 July 1988 Category: B Source: Historic Scotland Source ID: 376197 Historic Scotland Designation Reference: LB32951 Building Class: Cultural Location: Glasgow County: Glasgow Town: Glasgow Electoral Ward: Anderston/City/Yorkhill Traditional County: Lanarkshire |
Coordinates
Latitude: 55.859 / 55°51'32"N Longitude: -4.2617 / 4°15'42"W OS Eastings: 258537 OS Northings: 665184 OS Grid: NS585651 Mapcode National: GBR 0KM.5F Mapcode Global: WH3P2.HZVS Plus Code: 9C7QVP5Q+J8 |
11 July 2020 (15:00*) - Firefighters are dealing with thatched fire in Thruxton, Andover
Andover firefighters are urging the public to avoid Thruxton this afternoon as they tend to a thatch roof fire. The incident is in Village Street in Thruxton. A spokesman for Andover Fire Station said: "Crews from across Hampshire and Wiltshire are currently dealing with a thatch roof fire. There are lots of fire appliances attending this incident so please avoid the area."
Around 13 fire crews attended from Winchester, Eastleigh, Romsey and Hightown, Andover, Basingstoke, Ludgershall, Salisbury, Overton, Sutton Scotney, Bishops Waltham, Alresford and Newbury.
The small timber framed Bridge Cottage was built in the 17th century, with 18th and 20th century additions. It is Grade II listed.
News Source: Andover Advertiser
Around 13 fire crews attended from Winchester, Eastleigh, Romsey and Hightown, Andover, Basingstoke, Ludgershall, Salisbury, Overton, Sutton Scotney, Bishops Waltham, Alresford and Newbury.
The small timber framed Bridge Cottage was built in the 17th century, with 18th and 20th century additions. It is Grade II listed.
News Source: Andover Advertiser
Listing Details
Entry Name: Bridge Cottage
Listing Date: 24 October 1984 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1339400 English Heritage Legacy ID: 140148 Location: Thruxton, Test Valley, Hampshire, SP11 County: Hampshire District: Test Valley Civil Parish: Thruxton Built-Up Area: Thruxton Aerodrome Traditional County: Hampshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Hampshire Church of England Parish: Thruxton St Peter and St Paul Church of England Diocese: Winchester |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.2086 / 51°12'30"N Longitude: -1.5843 / 1°35'3"W OS Eastings: 429134 OS Northings: 145568 OS Grid: SU291455 Mapcode National: GBR 619.28L Mapcode Global: VHC2Q.HW9C Plus Code: 9C3W6C58+C7 |
Near Miss
11 July 2020 (09:39) - Fire crews called to fire in centre of Cowes
11 July 2020 (09:39) - Fire crews called to fire in centre of Cowes
Firefighters have been called to Cowes this morning (Saturday) after reports of a fire. Crews are currently in attendance at Watch House Lane next to the Union Inn in the centre of Cowes, with dark smoke visible from a distance. 5 appliances from Newport, Cowes, East Cowes and Ryde are on scene in the High Street. The Incident Command Unit from Newport is also in attendance alongside 2 duty officers.
The first reports of the fire were received after persons reported the fire at 9.39am. The fire was confirmed as eminating from the rear kitchen of a commercial premises in Watch House Lane, believed to be Watch House Barn. Four breathing apparatus, two hose reels and a covering jet have been during the incident. The fire has partially spread to the roof space of the building, which is situated on the corner of Watch House Lane and High Street/Bath Road.
Over 25 firefighters are now involved in tackling the blaze with main jets being used to douse the rooftops from the outside to keep them cool. Hydrants are being utilised which may lead to low pressure or brown water for residents in Cowes. At 11.20am, Incident Commander Chris Thearle confirmed that the fire has been now been extinguished, with crews damping down. The fire started in a deep fat fryer and quickly spread through the kitchen and upwards into a first floor room. Crews sectorised the fire and worked hard to contain and extinguish the blaze. Police and paramedics are assisting their fire service colleagues and cordons have been erected in the immediate vicinity. SM Thearle has praised the efforts of his firefighters for their quick actions and hard work which undoubtedly prevented the fire from spreading to adjoining properties. The incident is now being scaled back and crews are expected to remain on scene for the next hour or so. All Persons have been accounted for.
The fire began in a deep fat fryer and quickly spread to the first floor and roof void. Crews used multiple breathing apparatus, hose reels and main jets to bring the situation under control, sectorising the fire and allowing smoke to vent through the roof.
The Watch House Barn has some history, but the adjacent Union Inn has avery long history as a hostelry, dating back to the 18th century. During the late 1700s, most of the old wooden houses in Cowes were pulled down and replaced by a superior type of building. However, in Watch Lane, three of the houses survived, with were later the foundation for the Union Inn. At some time in its history, the Union Inn had a sea light on a tower above the pub. This people used to guide the anglers back to shore and safety during rough and inclement weather. The pub was a firm favourite of the navy press gang, who used the pub to enlist many young men into their services when the fleet was at Portsmouth. The name of the pub is a reference to a political union such as the Act of Union, 1707, which decreed that England and Scotland should be one kingdom with one parliament.
News Source: County Press
The first reports of the fire were received after persons reported the fire at 9.39am. The fire was confirmed as eminating from the rear kitchen of a commercial premises in Watch House Lane, believed to be Watch House Barn. Four breathing apparatus, two hose reels and a covering jet have been during the incident. The fire has partially spread to the roof space of the building, which is situated on the corner of Watch House Lane and High Street/Bath Road.
Over 25 firefighters are now involved in tackling the blaze with main jets being used to douse the rooftops from the outside to keep them cool. Hydrants are being utilised which may lead to low pressure or brown water for residents in Cowes. At 11.20am, Incident Commander Chris Thearle confirmed that the fire has been now been extinguished, with crews damping down. The fire started in a deep fat fryer and quickly spread through the kitchen and upwards into a first floor room. Crews sectorised the fire and worked hard to contain and extinguish the blaze. Police and paramedics are assisting their fire service colleagues and cordons have been erected in the immediate vicinity. SM Thearle has praised the efforts of his firefighters for their quick actions and hard work which undoubtedly prevented the fire from spreading to adjoining properties. The incident is now being scaled back and crews are expected to remain on scene for the next hour or so. All Persons have been accounted for.
The fire began in a deep fat fryer and quickly spread to the first floor and roof void. Crews used multiple breathing apparatus, hose reels and main jets to bring the situation under control, sectorising the fire and allowing smoke to vent through the roof.
The Watch House Barn has some history, but the adjacent Union Inn has avery long history as a hostelry, dating back to the 18th century. During the late 1700s, most of the old wooden houses in Cowes were pulled down and replaced by a superior type of building. However, in Watch Lane, three of the houses survived, with were later the foundation for the Union Inn. At some time in its history, the Union Inn had a sea light on a tower above the pub. This people used to guide the anglers back to shore and safety during rough and inclement weather. The pub was a firm favourite of the navy press gang, who used the pub to enlist many young men into their services when the fleet was at Portsmouth. The name of the pub is a reference to a political union such as the Act of Union, 1707, which decreed that England and Scotland should be one kingdom with one parliament.
News Source: County Press
10 July 2020 (17:40) - Firefighters tackling blaze at Foxhunters Inn near Ilfracombe
Firefighters are tackling a fire at West Down near Ilfracombe this evening (Friday, July 10). Fire crews and police were called to the Foxhunters Inn at 5.40pm to reports of a fire at the public house in West Down. Appliances from Braunton, Ilfracombe and Barnstaple have attended, as well as an aerial ladder platform from Barnstaple. With smoke and flames issuing from the building, a further appliance from Barnstaple was requested.
A statement from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews got to work using four breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets, one safety jet and one covering jet to extinguish the fire. Police were requested to close the road and highways have been informed of this incident. Western Power were also requested and are in attendance to isolate the electrics. This incident is ongoing and will be updated as further information is received.”
In an update from fire control at 10.23pm says: "It's pretty much dealt with now, crews are still there on the scene and are just damping down. The road is still closed and we'd urge motorists to avoid the area. Crews will be clearing up and then leaving the matter in the hands of the police." The fire service says the fire is being treated as arson. Half the building has been severely damaged by fire and the rest moderately damaged by heat and smoke.
In December, a developer, who has been accused of holding village pubs to ransom, submitted plans to turn the 300 year old coaching house, which has been empty since 2014, into housing. Businessman Philip Milton has come under fire several times this year from residents in Devon villages where he owns the local pub. He has been criticised for purchasing the businesses and then applying to turn them into houses, rather than reopen them as pubs.
The application outlines proposals to transform the former inn into four cottages which would be located next to the busy A361 road between Ilfracombe and Barnstaple. The plans also include major alterations to an existing bungalow behind the pub, which will be converted to a "chalet" style residence. There is also an existing car park opposite the former pub that would provide parking spaces for the houses.
In a design and access statement submitted with the plans, it says: "The Foxhunters Inn part of the project is a straightforward conversion from public house and hotel to four cottages. This is achieved internally by touching the fabric of the building very lightly, and wherever possible, bringing historical features back to life. Part of a modern but faux historical lean to is removed to reveal the original external wall. The identity of the existing building is preserved and enhanced."
The plans were refused by North Devon Council on the 27th February on the grounds that the development would result in the unjustified loss of a community facility in the form of a public house. This was the third time that Mr Milton’s plans for the Foxhunter’s Inn have been rejected and he said he was considering an appeal.
News Source: North Devon Gazette
A statement from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews got to work using four breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets, one safety jet and one covering jet to extinguish the fire. Police were requested to close the road and highways have been informed of this incident. Western Power were also requested and are in attendance to isolate the electrics. This incident is ongoing and will be updated as further information is received.”
In an update from fire control at 10.23pm says: "It's pretty much dealt with now, crews are still there on the scene and are just damping down. The road is still closed and we'd urge motorists to avoid the area. Crews will be clearing up and then leaving the matter in the hands of the police." The fire service says the fire is being treated as arson. Half the building has been severely damaged by fire and the rest moderately damaged by heat and smoke.
In December, a developer, who has been accused of holding village pubs to ransom, submitted plans to turn the 300 year old coaching house, which has been empty since 2014, into housing. Businessman Philip Milton has come under fire several times this year from residents in Devon villages where he owns the local pub. He has been criticised for purchasing the businesses and then applying to turn them into houses, rather than reopen them as pubs.
The application outlines proposals to transform the former inn into four cottages which would be located next to the busy A361 road between Ilfracombe and Barnstaple. The plans also include major alterations to an existing bungalow behind the pub, which will be converted to a "chalet" style residence. There is also an existing car park opposite the former pub that would provide parking spaces for the houses.
In a design and access statement submitted with the plans, it says: "The Foxhunters Inn part of the project is a straightforward conversion from public house and hotel to four cottages. This is achieved internally by touching the fabric of the building very lightly, and wherever possible, bringing historical features back to life. Part of a modern but faux historical lean to is removed to reveal the original external wall. The identity of the existing building is preserved and enhanced."
The plans were refused by North Devon Council on the 27th February on the grounds that the development would result in the unjustified loss of a community facility in the form of a public house. This was the third time that Mr Milton’s plans for the Foxhunter’s Inn have been rejected and he said he was considering an appeal.
News Source: North Devon Gazette
10 July 2020 (13:36) - Fire breaks out at village pub near Yeovil
Firefighters were called after a fire broke out at a village pub near Yeovil this afternoon (Friday, July 10). The blaze broke out at the Mildmay Arms in Queen Camel at around 1.30pm. A total of six fire crews attended and helped to extinguish the blaze before making the building safe. The pub temporarily closed as a result of the fire but was open again by 6pm this evening, according to a post on its Facebook page, which said “OK everyone we have had major fire, the staff and customers debs and I are all OK. We are not going to let this stop us it was upstairs so downstairs should be OK. Please, please does anyone know of an electrician who could check all our electrics out? The fire brigade won't let us open without this and after being closed for 4 months we need to open any help greatly appreciated. Thanks, Ian and Debs.”
A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said on the Yeovil Fire Station Facebook page: "Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received a call from a member of the public reporting a fire in a public house at the above location. Three fire appliances and an Aerial Ladder Platform from Yeovil, Wincanton and Castle Cary were immediately mobilised by Fire Control. On arrival, the Incident Commander confirmed that there was smoke issuing from the property and requested the attendance of 2 more fire appliance from Yeovil and Sherborne. Crews got to work to begin tackling the fire using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets and ladders. A sixth fire appliance from Somerton was requested to attend due to the amount of breathing apparatus in use at the incident.Incident Support Unit from Yeovil was requested. The fire was finally extinguished using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, safety jets, triple extension ladders, thermal imaging cameras, ceiling hooks, and small tools. It caused about 80% fire damage to the room of origin and significant smoke damage to the rest of the property. The fire was believed to have been started by a carpet cleaning machine."
Built around 1640, the Mildmay Arms is a traditional English village pub. After a chequered history in recent times it had been open and closed several times before being closed and effectively abandoned for two years.
News Source: Somerset Live
A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said on the Yeovil Fire Station Facebook page: "Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received a call from a member of the public reporting a fire in a public house at the above location. Three fire appliances and an Aerial Ladder Platform from Yeovil, Wincanton and Castle Cary were immediately mobilised by Fire Control. On arrival, the Incident Commander confirmed that there was smoke issuing from the property and requested the attendance of 2 more fire appliance from Yeovil and Sherborne. Crews got to work to begin tackling the fire using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets and ladders. A sixth fire appliance from Somerton was requested to attend due to the amount of breathing apparatus in use at the incident.Incident Support Unit from Yeovil was requested. The fire was finally extinguished using breathing apparatus, hose reel jets, safety jets, triple extension ladders, thermal imaging cameras, ceiling hooks, and small tools. It caused about 80% fire damage to the room of origin and significant smoke damage to the rest of the property. The fire was believed to have been started by a carpet cleaning machine."
Built around 1640, the Mildmay Arms is a traditional English village pub. After a chequered history in recent times it had been open and closed several times before being closed and effectively abandoned for two years.
News Source: Somerset Live
9 July 2020 (12:47) - Hampstead church and school evacuated as firefighters bring ‘small fire’ under control
Firefighters were called to a fire on Heath Street, Hampstead this afternoon (July 9). The road was closed in both directions while the London Fire Brigade (LFB) brought a blaze, which had damaged the second floor of a building, under control. An LFB spokesperson said: “There was a small fire which damaged around 10 per cent of the second floor of the flat. We were called at 12.47 and it was under control by 1.25pm.”
Heath Street Baptist Church tweeted that it, and the school next door – Heathside – had been evacuated. The church also said it left out tea, coffee and biscuits for the firefighters after their work. Two fire engines were on the scene of the incident, while there have been no reports of any injuries. Heath Street has now reopened to traffic.
The building at the centre of the incident is part of a complex cluster of historic buildings which includes flats, Heathside Preparatory School and Grade II listed Heath Street Baptist Church, built 1860-1. The church is Grade II listed and lies within the Hampstead Conservation Area.
News Source: Ham and High
Heath Street Baptist Church tweeted that it, and the school next door – Heathside – had been evacuated. The church also said it left out tea, coffee and biscuits for the firefighters after their work. Two fire engines were on the scene of the incident, while there have been no reports of any injuries. Heath Street has now reopened to traffic.
The building at the centre of the incident is part of a complex cluster of historic buildings which includes flats, Heathside Preparatory School and Grade II listed Heath Street Baptist Church, built 1860-1. The church is Grade II listed and lies within the Hampstead Conservation Area.
News Source: Ham and High
Listing Details
Entry Name: Baptist Church
Listing Date: 14 May 1974 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1379422 English Heritage Legacy ID: 478803 Location: Camden, London, NW3 County: London District: Camden Electoral Ward/Division: Hampstead Town Built-Up Area: Camden Traditional County: Middlesex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Greater London Church of England Parish: Christ Church Hampstead Church of England Diocese: London |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.558 / 51°33'28"N Longitude: -0.1783 / 0°10'41"W OS Eastings: 526385 OS Northings: 185916 OS Grid: TQ263859 Mapcode National: GBR D0.FQP Mapcode Global: VHGQR.V3MH Plus Code: 9C3XHR5C+5M |
8 July 2020 (21:30*) - Arson suspected at Swansea church undergoing major renovation
A former church being renovated into a charity hub to support young people was damaged in a fire believed to have been deliberate. The fire happened at around 9.30pm at the former St Luke's church in Cwmbwrla, Swansea On Wednesday, July 8. The church had been empty for a number of years, but local charity, Circus Eruption, was in the process of making it its permanent base after buying the building in 2019. It suspects arsonists were to blame for the fire which caused around £10,000 worth of damage to the floor, door and original stained glass windows. Despite the damage, the building has since been professionally secured.
Circus Eruption, which is soon to turn 30, aims to give young people from various backgrounds support and confidence through learning circus skills together. Over the years, the charity has occupied temporary spaces in Swansea through charity lets, but it was hoping to make the former St Luke's church its forever home by Christmas, 2020. This will now be delayed.
Project coordinator at Circus Eruption, Karen Chalk, said the fire was "a huge shock", but that they wouldn't let it bring them down. Speaking on Thursday she said: "The fire service were on the scene within minutes and extinguished it safely. There's relatively minimal damage to the floor although sadly a couple of the windows have been damaged separately too. We were there with the police until gone midnight - securing the property as best we could. We have had a lot of work to do today, but whilst these are big challenges, the support we have had from the Circus Eruption community and the local community around Cwmbwrla as well as Swansea more widely has been amazing. We are so grateful for all the kindness, the offers of help, the messages of support, and even a donation."
She added: "At Circus Eruption, we do get that people do want to take risks and get an adrenaline rush - we play with fire as part of our circus training. We turn that excitement into something productive. We hope that whoever did this finds support and something positive to put that energy into." On the same day, the Circus Eruption crew were told they would soon have to move out of their current charity let at Toys R Us in Parc Tawe. Ms Chalk said it had been an ideal space to do all sorts of circus activities, but that it knew it wouldn't have it forever. "We found out on Wednesday morning that we would need to leave Toys R Us and then in the evening the fire happened," said Ms Chalk. "Charity lets are temporary, so it wasn't completely out of the blue. We've been so fortunate to be able to use it on a charity let basis the past 18 months, but we've now received the request to vacate. It's the third charity let we've had and this time always comes, so it is sad but also it's great news for Swansea because it means that something is going in there - exciting, because it's such a major space." Ms Chalk explained that it meant the charity was looking for interim accommodation while it waited to move into the former church. A South Wales Police spokeswoman said: "We were made aware of a small fire in St Luke's Church on 8 July at about 9.50pm. Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact 101 quoting occurrence 2000242271."
The former St Luke’s church is a Grade II listed building and was built in 1889, designed by E Bruce Vaughan, architect of Cardiff.
News Source: Wales Online
Circus Eruption, which is soon to turn 30, aims to give young people from various backgrounds support and confidence through learning circus skills together. Over the years, the charity has occupied temporary spaces in Swansea through charity lets, but it was hoping to make the former St Luke's church its forever home by Christmas, 2020. This will now be delayed.
Project coordinator at Circus Eruption, Karen Chalk, said the fire was "a huge shock", but that they wouldn't let it bring them down. Speaking on Thursday she said: "The fire service were on the scene within minutes and extinguished it safely. There's relatively minimal damage to the floor although sadly a couple of the windows have been damaged separately too. We were there with the police until gone midnight - securing the property as best we could. We have had a lot of work to do today, but whilst these are big challenges, the support we have had from the Circus Eruption community and the local community around Cwmbwrla as well as Swansea more widely has been amazing. We are so grateful for all the kindness, the offers of help, the messages of support, and even a donation."
She added: "At Circus Eruption, we do get that people do want to take risks and get an adrenaline rush - we play with fire as part of our circus training. We turn that excitement into something productive. We hope that whoever did this finds support and something positive to put that energy into." On the same day, the Circus Eruption crew were told they would soon have to move out of their current charity let at Toys R Us in Parc Tawe. Ms Chalk said it had been an ideal space to do all sorts of circus activities, but that it knew it wouldn't have it forever. "We found out on Wednesday morning that we would need to leave Toys R Us and then in the evening the fire happened," said Ms Chalk. "Charity lets are temporary, so it wasn't completely out of the blue. We've been so fortunate to be able to use it on a charity let basis the past 18 months, but we've now received the request to vacate. It's the third charity let we've had and this time always comes, so it is sad but also it's great news for Swansea because it means that something is going in there - exciting, because it's such a major space." Ms Chalk explained that it meant the charity was looking for interim accommodation while it waited to move into the former church. A South Wales Police spokeswoman said: "We were made aware of a small fire in St Luke's Church on 8 July at about 9.50pm. Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact 101 quoting occurrence 2000242271."
The former St Luke’s church is a Grade II listed building and was built in 1889, designed by E Bruce Vaughan, architect of Cardiff.
News Source: Wales Online
Listing Details
Entry Name: Church of St Luke
Listing Date: 30 March 1987 Last Amended: 30 March 1987 Grade: II Source: Cadw Source ID: 11682 Building Class: Religious, Ritual and Funerary Location: Set on a terraced site across the slope, and looking down to A483 roundabout at Libanus Chapel. County: Swansea Community: Cwmbwrla Community: Cwmbwrla Built-Up Area: Swansea Traditional County: Glamorgan |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.6363 / 51°38'10"N Longitude: -3.9541 / 3°57'14"W OS Eastings: 264864 OS Northings: 194868 OS Grid: SS648948 Mapcode National: GBR WQB.BP Mapcode Global: VH4K9.D4ZD Plus Code: 9C3RJ2PW+G9 |
8 July 2020 (02:20) - Major fire at former school building in Carnglaze
The site of a former school has been gutted by fire. The former infant school building, in Carclaze near St Austell was attended by eight major appliances from St Austell, Mevagissey, Fowey, Newquay, Lostwithiel, Launceston and St Dennis fire stations attended the scene along with support vehicles and an area ladder platform. Residents were asked by officers from the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service to keep their windows and doors closed due to the ongoing incident, with nearby roads closed by Devon and Cornwall Police. The blaze started at 2:20am in the morning on 8 July.
Cornwall and Devon Police were also in attendance, with a spokesperson saying: Police have assisted the fire service with road closures."These were in place at Carclaze Road's junction with the A391, Phernyssick Road and the Tregonissy traffic lights.This has since been restricted to Carclaze Road only."
Photos from the scene show the devastation of the fire's aftermath. The historic building was originally built by the local communities of Tregonissey and Carclaze in the 1880's and designed by famed Victorian architect Silvanus Trevail. This beautiful community building served the local area for over 130 years, until closure in 2010, due to the new Carclaze primary school opening.
News Source: Cornwall Live
Cornwall and Devon Police were also in attendance, with a spokesperson saying: Police have assisted the fire service with road closures."These were in place at Carclaze Road's junction with the A391, Phernyssick Road and the Tregonissy traffic lights.This has since been restricted to Carclaze Road only."
Photos from the scene show the devastation of the fire's aftermath. The historic building was originally built by the local communities of Tregonissey and Carclaze in the 1880's and designed by famed Victorian architect Silvanus Trevail. This beautiful community building served the local area for over 130 years, until closure in 2010, due to the new Carclaze primary school opening.
News Source: Cornwall Live
7 July 2020 (17:56) - Man fighting for life in hospital after fire at Old Swan Inn, Gargrave
A man is fighting for life in hospital after a fire ripped through a pub in Gargrave, near Skipton. Emergency services are still at the scene, at the Old Swan Inn on the High Street, and a police investigation is underway. Police were contacted at 5.55pm yesterday following concerns for the safety of a man aged in his 50s.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "Just before 6pm, police officers noticed a fire inside the pub and a man was seen on the roof of the building. Fire crews attended to deal with the blaze and the police tried to engage with the man in an effort to bring him to safety. A few nearby properties were temporarily evacuated as a precaution and local residents were urged to close doors and windows due to thick black smoke spreading from the fire. As a further safety measure, the A65 was also closed to traffic with local diversions expected to be in place until the early hours of Wednesday. Firefighters located the man on the roof of the pub and they brought him down at 6.38pm. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition." The spokesperson added: "Fire crews are still at the scene to ensure the fire remains under control. Northern Gas engineers are assisting the operation. A police investigation has begun to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident."
Six fire engines, from Skipton, Harrogate (including aerial ladder platform), Settle, Grassington and Lofthouse were sent to the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using two hose reels. Firefighters were still at the scene at 7am this morning while police were treating the area as a crime scene.
The Grade II listed country pub and restaurant dates back to the 18th century and offers guest accommodation. Having been closed since March, owners Tim Sharp and Lindsay Williamson have been running a takeaway and delivery service.
News Source: Telegraph and Argus
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "Just before 6pm, police officers noticed a fire inside the pub and a man was seen on the roof of the building. Fire crews attended to deal with the blaze and the police tried to engage with the man in an effort to bring him to safety. A few nearby properties were temporarily evacuated as a precaution and local residents were urged to close doors and windows due to thick black smoke spreading from the fire. As a further safety measure, the A65 was also closed to traffic with local diversions expected to be in place until the early hours of Wednesday. Firefighters located the man on the roof of the pub and they brought him down at 6.38pm. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition." The spokesperson added: "Fire crews are still at the scene to ensure the fire remains under control. Northern Gas engineers are assisting the operation. A police investigation has begun to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident."
Six fire engines, from Skipton, Harrogate (including aerial ladder platform), Settle, Grassington and Lofthouse were sent to the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using two hose reels. Firefighters were still at the scene at 7am this morning while police were treating the area as a crime scene.
The Grade II listed country pub and restaurant dates back to the 18th century and offers guest accommodation. Having been closed since March, owners Tim Sharp and Lindsay Williamson have been running a takeaway and delivery service.
News Source: Telegraph and Argus
Listing Details
Entry Name: The Old Swan Hotel
Listing Date: 31 May 1989 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1132088 English Heritage Legacy ID: 324944 Location: Gargrave, Craven, North Yorkshire, BD23 County: North Yorkshire District: Craven Civil Parish: Gargrave Built-Up Area: Gargrave Traditional County: Yorkshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): North Yorkshire Church of England Parish: Gargrave St Andrew Church of England Diocese: Leeds |
Coordinates
Latitude: 53.9843 / 53°59'3"N Longitude: -2.1039 / 2°6'13"W OS Eastings: 393285 OS Northings: 454257 OS Grid: SD932542 Mapcode National: GBR FQRC.9G Mapcode Global: WHB76.N3CW Plus Code: 9C5VXVMW+PF |
6 July 2020 (16:55*) - Fire strikes at bar in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter
A fire has broken out at a bar in a converted factory in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter. Frederick Street was closed while 20 firefighters dealt with the blaze at The Button Factory. West Midlands Fire service was called just before 17:00 BST and said the fire was focussed in a rear courtyard. It said nobody was injured or had to be evacuated from the bar, which reopened to the public on Saturday after being closed throughout lockdown.
One firefighter at the scene told BBC News the rear courtyard had been "totally destroyed". A spokesperson for the pub and restaurant said staff were all "safe and well" and it is unclear how badly the building has been damaged.
The corner site on Frederick Street and Regent Street dates back to 1824 and lies within the Jewellery Quarter Conservation Area. It originally housed William Elliott’s button factory (which specialised in a silk-covered button that Elliott patented). It was known as the Vertu Bar for a decade until the last pint was pulled on April 18 2016.
News Source: BBC News
One firefighter at the scene told BBC News the rear courtyard had been "totally destroyed". A spokesperson for the pub and restaurant said staff were all "safe and well" and it is unclear how badly the building has been damaged.
The corner site on Frederick Street and Regent Street dates back to 1824 and lies within the Jewellery Quarter Conservation Area. It originally housed William Elliott’s button factory (which specialised in a silk-covered button that Elliott patented). It was known as the Vertu Bar for a decade until the last pint was pulled on April 18 2016.
News Source: BBC News
5 July 2020 (02:17) - Fire crews battle major blaze after 'arson attack' at former Dudley school
Nearly 30 firefighters tackled a major blaze at a derelict former school in the Black Country which is believed to be an arson attack. An alarm was raised at 2.17am to say the former Sir Gilbert Claughton School in Dudley was on fire, and was attended by six appliances plus a hydraulic platform. West Midlands Fire Service said crews had swapped over at 8am. Police, paramedics, gas engineers and council workers have also been at the scene on Blowers Green Road, where around 80 per cent of the roof of the building has collapsed to the ground. A fire investigation is underway – with officers believing the fire was started deliberately. Nobody is reported to have been injured. Officers from Dudley Council are on site to erect fencing around the perimeter of the building.
A spokesman from West Midlands Fire Service said: "The first call came in at around 2.17am this morning, there was two crews mobilised straight away. The information provided said it was an abandoned building. Footage from the 999 Eye – which is a system that can view the caller's mobile phone footage they stream through to us. Based on that footage, we increased the appliances and sent a third to the scene. At around 2.25am the officer in charge of the Dudley appliance, he requested for a further two appliances and a hydraulic platform. We had 27 firefighters in total at the scene. The incident involved a severe fire in a former school. Around 50 per cent of the roof of the building was well alight and crews tackled the blaze with hose reel jets. At around 2.50am the fire had spread to 100 per cent of the roof. The appliances were pulled away from the building to a safe distance due to a potential collapse. Three relief crews were sent to the scene at around 8am this morning. Just before 10am, we had two relief crews on site looking for hot spots. They have scaled back the operation to just two appliances and the hydraulic platform. The platform is being used with a thermal imaging camera to check for any hot spots, while the crews were tackling any hot spots on the ground." They expected crews to be at the school throughout Sunday.
West Midlands Ambulance Services's Hazardous Area Response Team wrote on Twitter: "HART attended initially providing medical support to our West Midlands Fire Service colleagues. All in hand with defensive firefighting due to derelict and unsafe structure so all ambulance service resources stood down from the scene."
Most recently know as the Claughton Centre, the building has been derelict for several years and was set to be turned into apartments after being sold at auction for £405,000 in May last year - even though it had a guide price of £200,000. The historic school now has permission to be transformed into 21 apartments. The news that the site had been sold was welcomed by St Thomas’s ward Councillor Shaukat Ali. He said: “It is good news that the building has been sold. It has some listed features and I hope part of the apartments will be preserved. More accommodation is needed in the area and I hope it is affordable so people in the area can make use of it. The building has stood empty for some time so something needs to be done about it to bring it back into use. It is good news – the sale will preserve the building and its historic features and brings it back into use as accommodation.”
The school was originally called the Dudley Upper Standards School when it opened in 1904 and changed name several times before becoming the Sir Gilbert Claughton School in 1957, the title honouring a late 19th century mayor of Dudley. It closed in 1990 following a merger with another school to create Castle High. Dudley Council then moved into the site, and designated it as the Claughton Centre. It was used as offices, a youth centre and meeting site but it has not been used by the authority for a number of years. In 2016 plans were put forward for the Claughton Centre to be demolished for a housing development, however these plans were rejected because of the historical interest of the site. There are videos on YouTube of urban explorers walking about inside.
News Source: Express and Star
A spokesman from West Midlands Fire Service said: "The first call came in at around 2.17am this morning, there was two crews mobilised straight away. The information provided said it was an abandoned building. Footage from the 999 Eye – which is a system that can view the caller's mobile phone footage they stream through to us. Based on that footage, we increased the appliances and sent a third to the scene. At around 2.25am the officer in charge of the Dudley appliance, he requested for a further two appliances and a hydraulic platform. We had 27 firefighters in total at the scene. The incident involved a severe fire in a former school. Around 50 per cent of the roof of the building was well alight and crews tackled the blaze with hose reel jets. At around 2.50am the fire had spread to 100 per cent of the roof. The appliances were pulled away from the building to a safe distance due to a potential collapse. Three relief crews were sent to the scene at around 8am this morning. Just before 10am, we had two relief crews on site looking for hot spots. They have scaled back the operation to just two appliances and the hydraulic platform. The platform is being used with a thermal imaging camera to check for any hot spots, while the crews were tackling any hot spots on the ground." They expected crews to be at the school throughout Sunday.
West Midlands Ambulance Services's Hazardous Area Response Team wrote on Twitter: "HART attended initially providing medical support to our West Midlands Fire Service colleagues. All in hand with defensive firefighting due to derelict and unsafe structure so all ambulance service resources stood down from the scene."
Most recently know as the Claughton Centre, the building has been derelict for several years and was set to be turned into apartments after being sold at auction for £405,000 in May last year - even though it had a guide price of £200,000. The historic school now has permission to be transformed into 21 apartments. The news that the site had been sold was welcomed by St Thomas’s ward Councillor Shaukat Ali. He said: “It is good news that the building has been sold. It has some listed features and I hope part of the apartments will be preserved. More accommodation is needed in the area and I hope it is affordable so people in the area can make use of it. The building has stood empty for some time so something needs to be done about it to bring it back into use. It is good news – the sale will preserve the building and its historic features and brings it back into use as accommodation.”
The school was originally called the Dudley Upper Standards School when it opened in 1904 and changed name several times before becoming the Sir Gilbert Claughton School in 1957, the title honouring a late 19th century mayor of Dudley. It closed in 1990 following a merger with another school to create Castle High. Dudley Council then moved into the site, and designated it as the Claughton Centre. It was used as offices, a youth centre and meeting site but it has not been used by the authority for a number of years. In 2016 plans were put forward for the Claughton Centre to be demolished for a housing development, however these plans were rejected because of the historical interest of the site. There are videos on YouTube of urban explorers walking about inside.
News Source: Express and Star
4 July 2020 (18:20*) - Landlord of Wicken pub thanks all who prevented fire spreading to thatch roof
The first day of opening after lockdown was eventful for a pub close to Wicken Fen - firefighters were called to tackle a fire in the chimney. Calvin Holland, one of the partners of The Maid’s Head, in Wicken has publicly thanked staff, locals and firefighters for their help in preventing the flames from spreading to the thatched roof. He said: “If the fire had reached the thatch then it would’ve been game over for us. Thankfully nobody was hurt and we feel very lucky to still have our business.”
Firefighters from Newmarket and Burwell were called to the pub at around 6:20pm on Saturday (July 4) to reports that a fire had started in the chimney. Calvin explained the open fire had been lit because it was starting to feel chilly inside. He said: “The government [COVID-19] guidelines say pubs should have windows open to prevent the spread of the virus. We were also having issues with the heating. To me, it felt cold. I don’t want my customers eating a meal in their coats and jumpers, so I asked someone to light the fire. Before we knew it, there was thick smoke throughout the building. So we evacuated everyone and went through the standard fire procedure.”
Fire safety expert Paul Skinner, who runs Prestige Fire Safety lives close by and helped until firefighters arrived. Calvin said: “Paul took on the fire from inside the building while our chef, Scott, climbed the roof and tackled the flames from the top of the chimney. Together, they managed to prevent the fire from spreading any further.” He added: “Even after everything was over, people were offering to help us clean up. Firemen were wiping tables down, locals offered to lend a hand with the cleaning so we could reopen on Sunday. Lots of people have been very kind about what happened to us, and we really appreciate it.”
The pub has reopened again as normal. Calvin and his business partner Luke Ashdown-Tams, took on The Maid’s Head in February. Their aim is to turn it into a popular eating spot, but their plans were put on hold a month later when the coronavirus lockdown was introduced. Calvin joked: “After the events of Saturday night, it has certainly helped us get to know the locals.” The pair also run The White Pheasant at Fordham and The Anchor at Burwell.
The Maids Head is a Grade II listed building. Its origins date back to the 15th century when it would have been an open hall house, which was the standard in medieval times. The chimney stack was added in the 16th century which allowed the building to be divided internally, and for an upper floor to be built. A 19th century annexe was added and bears a datestone of 1852. The inn lies within the Wicken Conservation Area.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Times
Firefighters from Newmarket and Burwell were called to the pub at around 6:20pm on Saturday (July 4) to reports that a fire had started in the chimney. Calvin explained the open fire had been lit because it was starting to feel chilly inside. He said: “The government [COVID-19] guidelines say pubs should have windows open to prevent the spread of the virus. We were also having issues with the heating. To me, it felt cold. I don’t want my customers eating a meal in their coats and jumpers, so I asked someone to light the fire. Before we knew it, there was thick smoke throughout the building. So we evacuated everyone and went through the standard fire procedure.”
Fire safety expert Paul Skinner, who runs Prestige Fire Safety lives close by and helped until firefighters arrived. Calvin said: “Paul took on the fire from inside the building while our chef, Scott, climbed the roof and tackled the flames from the top of the chimney. Together, they managed to prevent the fire from spreading any further.” He added: “Even after everything was over, people were offering to help us clean up. Firemen were wiping tables down, locals offered to lend a hand with the cleaning so we could reopen on Sunday. Lots of people have been very kind about what happened to us, and we really appreciate it.”
The pub has reopened again as normal. Calvin and his business partner Luke Ashdown-Tams, took on The Maid’s Head in February. Their aim is to turn it into a popular eating spot, but their plans were put on hold a month later when the coronavirus lockdown was introduced. Calvin joked: “After the events of Saturday night, it has certainly helped us get to know the locals.” The pair also run The White Pheasant at Fordham and The Anchor at Burwell.
The Maids Head is a Grade II listed building. Its origins date back to the 15th century when it would have been an open hall house, which was the standard in medieval times. The chimney stack was added in the 16th century which allowed the building to be divided internally, and for an upper floor to be built. A 19th century annexe was added and bears a datestone of 1852. The inn lies within the Wicken Conservation Area.
News Source: Cambridgeshire Times
Listing Details
Entry Name: Maids Head Public House
Listing Date: 1 December 1951 Last Amended: 17 November 1983 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1126422 English Heritage Legacy ID: 48896 Location: Wicken, East Cambridgeshire, Cambridgeshire, CB7 County: Cambridgeshire District: East Cambridgeshire Civil Parish: Wicken Built-Up Area: Wicken Traditional County: Cambridgeshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Cambridgeshire Church of England Parish: Wicken St Laurence Church of England Diocese: Ely |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.3117 / 52°18'41"N Longitude: 0.3036 / 0°18'12"E OS Eastings: 557132 OS Northings: 270669 OS Grid: TL571706 Mapcode National: GBR M7P.5JQ Mapcode Global: VHHJT.65V7 Plus Code: 9F428863+MC |
4 July 2020 (17:59) – Kitchen fire at 16th century Spaniard’s Inn
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at Spaniard’s Inn on Spaniards Road in Hampstead on the first day the hospitality industry reopened. Part of the kitchen of a ground floor restaurant and a small part of a single toilet on the first floor of the building were damaged by fire. Around 80 people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.
The Brigade was called at 1759 and the fire was under control by 1927. Fire crews from West Hampstead and Finchley fire stations attended the scene. The Brigade's Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by a grill which was placed on a shelf and ignited timbers under the plaster board.
This 16th century Inn is Grade II listed. It lies within Hampstead Garden Suburbs Conservation Area and is considered to be the most important historic structure in the CA Appraisal. The Inn has many associations with historic personages both real and legendary.
News Source: London Fire Brigade
The Brigade was called at 1759 and the fire was under control by 1927. Fire crews from West Hampstead and Finchley fire stations attended the scene. The Brigade's Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by a grill which was placed on a shelf and ignited timbers under the plaster board.
This 16th century Inn is Grade II listed. It lies within Hampstead Garden Suburbs Conservation Area and is considered to be the most important historic structure in the CA Appraisal. The Inn has many associations with historic personages both real and legendary.
News Source: London Fire Brigade
Listing Details
Entry Name: The Spaniards Inn
Listing Date: 18 October 1949 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1064863 English Heritage Legacy ID: 199079 Location: Barnet, London, NW3 County: London District: Barnet Electoral Ward/Division: Garden Suburb Built-Up Area: Barnet Traditional County: Middlesex Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Greater London Church of England Parish: St Jude-on-the-Hill Hampstead Garden Suburb Church of England Diocese: London |
Coordinates
Latitude: 51.5699 / 51°34'11"N Longitude: -0.1741 / 0°10'26"W OS Eastings: 526642 OS Northings: 187244 OS Grid: TQ266872 Mapcode National: GBR CZ.NT5 Mapcode Global: VHGQK.XSTX Plus Code: 9C3XHR9G+W9 |
Building History
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The pub is believed to have been built in 1585 on the Finchley boundary, with the tavern forming the entrance to the Bishop of London's estate – an original boundary stone from 1755 can still be seen in the front garden. Opposite it there is a toll house built in around 1710. Today, the pub is in Barnet and the tollhouse is in Camden, both are now listed buildings and traffic is reduced to one lane between the two. A suggestion in 1966 to demolish the tollhouse was successfully resisted, partly on the grounds that it would lead to more and faster traffic.
Dick Turpin is thought to have been a regular at the Inn, as his father had been its landlord. What is certain is that highwaymen frequented this area and likely used the Inn to watch the road; at that time the Inn was around two hours from London by coach and the area had its fair share of wealthy travellers. Records from the Old Bailey show that on 16 October 1751 Samuel Bacon was indicted for robbery on the King's Highway and was caught 200 yards from the Spaniards.
In 1780 rioters involved in the Gordon Riots, opposed to the relaxation of laws in England that restricted Catholicism, marched on Hampstead intent on attacking Kenwood House, the home of William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield. The landlord of the Spaniards at the time is reported to have given them free drinks, keeping the rioters occupied, until the local militia arrived, thus saving the house.
The pub has been mentioned in Dickens's The Pickwick Papers and Bram Stoker's Dracula, and has been frequented by the artist Joshua Reynolds and the poets Byron and Keats. According to the pub, Keats wrote his Ode to a Nightingale in the gardens, and Stoker borrowed one of their resident ghost stories to furnish the plot of Dracula.
(Researched by Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection)
The pub is believed to have been built in 1585 on the Finchley boundary, with the tavern forming the entrance to the Bishop of London's estate – an original boundary stone from 1755 can still be seen in the front garden. Opposite it there is a toll house built in around 1710. Today, the pub is in Barnet and the tollhouse is in Camden, both are now listed buildings and traffic is reduced to one lane between the two. A suggestion in 1966 to demolish the tollhouse was successfully resisted, partly on the grounds that it would lead to more and faster traffic.
Dick Turpin is thought to have been a regular at the Inn, as his father had been its landlord. What is certain is that highwaymen frequented this area and likely used the Inn to watch the road; at that time the Inn was around two hours from London by coach and the area had its fair share of wealthy travellers. Records from the Old Bailey show that on 16 October 1751 Samuel Bacon was indicted for robbery on the King's Highway and was caught 200 yards from the Spaniards.
In 1780 rioters involved in the Gordon Riots, opposed to the relaxation of laws in England that restricted Catholicism, marched on Hampstead intent on attacking Kenwood House, the home of William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield. The landlord of the Spaniards at the time is reported to have given them free drinks, keeping the rioters occupied, until the local militia arrived, thus saving the house.
The pub has been mentioned in Dickens's The Pickwick Papers and Bram Stoker's Dracula, and has been frequented by the artist Joshua Reynolds and the poets Byron and Keats. According to the pub, Keats wrote his Ode to a Nightingale in the gardens, and Stoker borrowed one of their resident ghost stories to furnish the plot of Dracula.
4 July 2020 (12:30*) - Fire closes Bristol city centre road
A Bristol city centre road was closed this afternoon after a fire broke out at a student flat. The blaze resulted in the closure of Colston Street, which runs around Colston Hall, for several hours. It was first reported just before 1pm and initially both sides of the road were closed.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service later released some details of what happened. Gareth Lloyd, a station manager, said crews were called out at about 12.30pm to a student flat near Colston Hall. He said the fire started "in the area of a cooker" and that several vehicles attended - two fire appliances, a turntable ladder from Bedminster, as well as a fire engine from Temple Back. The fire caused smoke-logging in the first floor of flats, but all residents were accounted for and nobody was injured. A staff member at Fifty Fifty Store in Colston Street said, "There were five fire trucks and a bunch of firefighters, I didn't really see much. It smelt like smoke, like a bonfire. It was handled in a really calm and professional way." He said there was still one fire engine on scene as of 2.15pm.
Originally built in the 1930s, 33 Colston Street is Locally Listed and lies within the St Michael's Hill and Christmas Steps Conservation Area. It was originally home to Bristol’s YMCA hostel until the freehold was bought by the University of Bristol in 2009. The university then carried out a £6 million refurbishment programme to provide 121 study bedrooms and communal areas for students, undergoing a complete refurbishment prior to accepting students for the first time in 2011.
On the 12th October 2015, the top floor and roof of the university accommodation was gutted by a fire. Investigations showed it was caused by an unattended pan of oil in the kitchen of one of the flats. It spread from one end of the building to the other and completely destroyed the roof. All inside were evacuated from the building and nobody was injured in the 2015 fire but 120 students had to be re-homed. The Colston Street student accommodation then reopened in September 2017 after being fully refurbished at a cost of £8 million.
In March this year, the building was made available for NHS workers battling against the coronavirus, providing a total of 100 rooms for frontline staff and volunteers. Located a brief walking distance from the Bristol Royal Infirmary, the accommodation was offered at a reduced cost to recently qualified doctors from UoB's Medical School, as well as third-and fourth-year medical students who stepped up to tackle the ongoing pandemic.
News Source: Bristol Live
Avon Fire and Rescue Service later released some details of what happened. Gareth Lloyd, a station manager, said crews were called out at about 12.30pm to a student flat near Colston Hall. He said the fire started "in the area of a cooker" and that several vehicles attended - two fire appliances, a turntable ladder from Bedminster, as well as a fire engine from Temple Back. The fire caused smoke-logging in the first floor of flats, but all residents were accounted for and nobody was injured. A staff member at Fifty Fifty Store in Colston Street said, "There were five fire trucks and a bunch of firefighters, I didn't really see much. It smelt like smoke, like a bonfire. It was handled in a really calm and professional way." He said there was still one fire engine on scene as of 2.15pm.
Originally built in the 1930s, 33 Colston Street is Locally Listed and lies within the St Michael's Hill and Christmas Steps Conservation Area. It was originally home to Bristol’s YMCA hostel until the freehold was bought by the University of Bristol in 2009. The university then carried out a £6 million refurbishment programme to provide 121 study bedrooms and communal areas for students, undergoing a complete refurbishment prior to accepting students for the first time in 2011.
On the 12th October 2015, the top floor and roof of the university accommodation was gutted by a fire. Investigations showed it was caused by an unattended pan of oil in the kitchen of one of the flats. It spread from one end of the building to the other and completely destroyed the roof. All inside were evacuated from the building and nobody was injured in the 2015 fire but 120 students had to be re-homed. The Colston Street student accommodation then reopened in September 2017 after being fully refurbished at a cost of £8 million.
In March this year, the building was made available for NHS workers battling against the coronavirus, providing a total of 100 rooms for frontline staff and volunteers. Located a brief walking distance from the Bristol Royal Infirmary, the accommodation was offered at a reduced cost to recently qualified doctors from UoB's Medical School, as well as third-and fourth-year medical students who stepped up to tackle the ongoing pandemic.
News Source: Bristol Live
3 July 2020 (21:00*) - Police treating fire in north-east primary school outbuilding as ‘wilful’
Police are treating a fire in an outbuilding at a north-east primary school as wilful. At about 9pm on Friday, crews were called to Monymusk Primary School where a fire in an outbuilding caused “extensive damage to its roof and contents”. Officers have appealed for help to track down those responsible.
It’s understood play equipment was destroyed in the blaze which Gillian Owen, chairwoman of the council’s education and children services committee, branded “mindless vandalism” and”totally unacceptable”. She added: “The school community have been working tirelessly during these strange times and to see this damage must been devastating for them. I do hope the culprits are found and suitably punished.”
Constable Kelsey Stewart, of Huntly Police Station, added: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of the school on Friday night and saw any suspicious persons or activity to get in touch with police as soon as possible.
The school and its outbuildings were built in 1907 in solid Aberdeenshire granite. It was originally a secondary school, but after a few years it was converted into a primary school.
News Source: Press and Journal
It’s understood play equipment was destroyed in the blaze which Gillian Owen, chairwoman of the council’s education and children services committee, branded “mindless vandalism” and”totally unacceptable”. She added: “The school community have been working tirelessly during these strange times and to see this damage must been devastating for them. I do hope the culprits are found and suitably punished.”
Constable Kelsey Stewart, of Huntly Police Station, added: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area of the school on Friday night and saw any suspicious persons or activity to get in touch with police as soon as possible.
The school and its outbuildings were built in 1907 in solid Aberdeenshire granite. It was originally a secondary school, but after a few years it was converted into a primary school.
News Source: Press and Journal
3 July 2020 (19:55*) - Fire crew tackle blaze in basement of Bruntsfield coffee shop
Multiple fire crew were seen battling a blaze at a coffee shop in Bruntsfield on Friday evening. The fire broke out in the basement of the Project Coffee cafe in Bruntsfield Place shortly before 8pm. Eyewitnesses noted a large fire & rescue service presence with around 25 firefighters seen in the area. It is understood that at least four fire crews and one height appliance were dispatched to the scene. The affected premises were unoccupied at the time of the fire.
The cafe reopened as normal on Saturday morning, with the cause having been determined as an electrical fault with a freezer. Project Coffee’s owners said there had been “a lot of smoke, but not a lot of fire”. They added: “The shop had filled up with smoke, but is otherwise fine. It was caused by an electrical fault in the basement area. When I got there, it did look awfully dramatic, but fortunately the fire was very small. The fire brigade came and broke into the shop and dealt with it.”
The coffee shop is within a large 5-storey tenement block with street level shops. It was designed by Beattie & Sons for the builder W G Daviesbuilt in 1889 and is Category C listed. It lies within the Marchmont, Meadows & Bruntsfield Conservation Area.
News Source: Edinburgh Evening News
The cafe reopened as normal on Saturday morning, with the cause having been determined as an electrical fault with a freezer. Project Coffee’s owners said there had been “a lot of smoke, but not a lot of fire”. They added: “The shop had filled up with smoke, but is otherwise fine. It was caused by an electrical fault in the basement area. When I got there, it did look awfully dramatic, but fortunately the fire was very small. The fire brigade came and broke into the shop and dealt with it.”
The coffee shop is within a large 5-storey tenement block with street level shops. It was designed by Beattie & Sons for the builder W G Daviesbuilt in 1889 and is Category C listed. It lies within the Marchmont, Meadows & Bruntsfield Conservation Area.
News Source: Edinburgh Evening News
Listing Details
Entry Name: 176-196 Even Nos Bruntsfield Place
Listing Date: 3 February 1993 Category: C Source: Historic Scotland Source ID: 363535 Historic Scotland Designation Reference: LB26750 Building Class: Cultural Location: Edinburgh County: Edinburgh Town: Edinburgh Electoral Ward: Morningside Traditional County: Midlothian |
Coordinates
Latitude: 55.9362 / 55°56'10"N Longitude: -3.2093 / 3°12'33"W OS Eastings: 324549 OS Northings: 672121 OS Grid: NT245721 Mapcode National: GBR 8KM.DJ Mapcode Global: WH6SS.N2Y1 Plus Code: 9C7RWQPR+F7 |
Near Miss
1 July 2020 (p.m.) - Shed fire breaks out at Royal Oak in Goodworth Clatford
1 July 2020 (p.m.) - Shed fire breaks out at Royal Oak in Goodworth Clatford
A pub’s preparations for reopening this weekend were almost dealt a major blow after a shed fire broke out at the premises this week. Firefighters from Andover were called to the Royal Oak in Goodworth Clatford on Wednesday to a shed fire at the bottom of the pub’s garden. Images on social media show the charred remains of items within the shed, but pub staff have confirmed that no one was hurt and this weekend’s reopening is still set to go ahead as planned.
A post shared via Andover Fire Station’s Facebook page on Wednesday read: “Two appliances (P1 and P7) from Andover Fire Station were mobilised earlier today to a shed fire at The Royal Oak at Goodworth Clatford. Two breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and one delivery of compressed air foam were all used to put a good stop to the fire. Royal Oak, we hope that opening back up to the public on the 4th of July goes well! Thanks to Whitchurch Fire Station for standing by at station whilst we were at the shout!”
A message shared on the Royal Oak, Goodworth Clatford’s Facebook page added: “A massive shout out to our friends at Andover fire station – with us in less than five minutes. No one hurt, and still good to go this weekend. We are now fully booked inside so keep an eye on the weather and we are taking bookings in the garden.”
The Royal Oak building is a replacement for the one that was destroyed by a flying bomb during World War II, together with the School and a number of neighbouring properties, including the Old Forge. So it is only around 70 years old, but it is considered as a Building of Local Interest as well as a Major Key Building in the Goodworth, Clatford and Upper Clatford Conservation Area.
News Source: Andover Advertiser
A post shared via Andover Fire Station’s Facebook page on Wednesday read: “Two appliances (P1 and P7) from Andover Fire Station were mobilised earlier today to a shed fire at The Royal Oak at Goodworth Clatford. Two breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and one delivery of compressed air foam were all used to put a good stop to the fire. Royal Oak, we hope that opening back up to the public on the 4th of July goes well! Thanks to Whitchurch Fire Station for standing by at station whilst we were at the shout!”
A message shared on the Royal Oak, Goodworth Clatford’s Facebook page added: “A massive shout out to our friends at Andover fire station – with us in less than five minutes. No one hurt, and still good to go this weekend. We are now fully booked inside so keep an eye on the weather and we are taking bookings in the garden.”
The Royal Oak building is a replacement for the one that was destroyed by a flying bomb during World War II, together with the School and a number of neighbouring properties, including the Old Forge. So it is only around 70 years old, but it is considered as a Building of Local Interest as well as a Major Key Building in the Goodworth, Clatford and Upper Clatford Conservation Area.
News Source: Andover Advertiser
1 July 2020 (06:00*) - Fire shuts cafe as owners tell of their shock
Cafe owners have told how they were left 'in shock' after a fire broke out at their venue. The Laughing Duck Cafe, at Fradley Junction, has been forced to close for the time being after the fire yesterday morning, Wednesday, July 1. Fire engines from Barton under Needwood and Lichfield went to the scene at 6am yesterday morning to tackle the fire at the cafe popular with groups including bikers and cyclists. The cafe was left with "extensive internal damage" which has led to it having to close for now. Firefighters at the scene had to wear breathing apparatus as they tackled the fire.
However, the owners have taken to Facebook to say "we may be down, but we are never beaten". They revealed they were now looking at ways to reopen by the weekend by using a catering trailer instead. An original post from the cafe said: "It is with regret that we have had a fire at the Laughing Duck Cafe in the early hours of this morning. Fire crews attended at 6am and dealt with the situation, however we have suffered extensive internal damage. Obviously we are all in shock at the moment but will update you as we know more. Many thanks to all the attending fire crews."
A spokesman for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Just after 6am yesterday morning, July 1, crews from Lichfield and Barton under Needwood attended a fire at the Laughing Duck Cafe, Fradley Junction. They used four breathing apparatus and two hose reel jets to extinguish the blaze. The cause of the fire is believed to have been a defective appliance [fridge freezer]."
The café building was originally a workshop for the canal. It was built in 1872 and is Grade II listed.
News Source: Derbyshire Live
However, the owners have taken to Facebook to say "we may be down, but we are never beaten". They revealed they were now looking at ways to reopen by the weekend by using a catering trailer instead. An original post from the cafe said: "It is with regret that we have had a fire at the Laughing Duck Cafe in the early hours of this morning. Fire crews attended at 6am and dealt with the situation, however we have suffered extensive internal damage. Obviously we are all in shock at the moment but will update you as we know more. Many thanks to all the attending fire crews."
A spokesman for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Just after 6am yesterday morning, July 1, crews from Lichfield and Barton under Needwood attended a fire at the Laughing Duck Cafe, Fradley Junction. They used four breathing apparatus and two hose reel jets to extinguish the blaze. The cause of the fire is believed to have been a defective appliance [fridge freezer]."
The café building was originally a workshop for the canal. It was built in 1872 and is Grade II listed.
News Source: Derbyshire Live
Entry Name: Workshops approximately 250 yards east of The Swan
Listing Date: 20 November 1986 Grade: II Source: Historic England Source ID: 1374250 English Heritage Legacy ID: 272498 Location: Fradley and Streethay, Lichfield, Staffordshire, DE13 County: Staffordshire District: Lichfield Civil Parish: Fradley and Streethay Traditional County: Staffordshire Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Staffordshire |
Coordinates
Latitude: 52.7243 / 52°43'27"N Longitude: -1.7905 / 1°47'25"W OS Eastings: 414248 OS Northings: 314094 OS Grid: SK142140 Mapcode National: GBR 4D9.45G Mapcode Global: WHCGH.GSMB Plus Code: 9C4WP6F5+PR |
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
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June - 45 Fires & 11 Near Misses
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
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May - 31 Fires & 9 Near Misses
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
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April - 50 Fires & 8 Near Misses
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
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March - 36 Fires & 6 Near Misses
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
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February - 34 Fires & 6 Near Misses
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Preventing Fire, Protecting Life, Preserving Heritage
Click HERE for Expert Specialist Fire Safety Risk Assessments for Historic and Listed Buildings
Phone: 07840 351458 Email: hello@fireprotect.me.uk
January - 31 Fires & 13 Near Misses
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Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales, CH5 1PE
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection is a trading style of Dragon Fire Safety
Heritage & Ecclesiastical Fire Protection is a trading style of Dragon Fire Safety