Fire crews call for back-up after huge blaze engulfs old Horlicks site in Somerset

Eight fire engines were called to the scene in Station Road and smoke could be scene from miles around.

People in the area wereurged to keep away from the scene while the blaze is tackled.

The fire service have confirmed that they believe this was an arson attack.

Incident - Building fire#Ilminster 10 fire engines in attendance#ongoing incident https://t.co/46jDt7Gp5n

— Devon&Somerset Fire (@DSFireUpdates) November 3, 2017

Paul Slaven, a spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman, said: “We got a call at 3pm to Station Road in Ilminster. Police are there as well as it does look to be a serious incident.

“There is black smoke issuing from the old Horlicks building which is believed to be derelict.

“The warehouse is well alight and crews have just called for additional appliances.

“There is a lot of smoke and at the moment if people are concerned they should close their windows and don’t and stay away from the area.”

The fire service said it received several calls to the fire from members of the public.

An initial four engines were sent to the scene but back up was quickly called on, bringing the total to 10.

The fire service log states: “Crews making good progress, 100 per cent of this building is involved in fire and it is used as storage. Contents at present unknown.

The factory measures 30m x 80m, the fire service said.

The fire crew managed to get the blaze under control at 7.38pm with relief crews attending from Chard, Taunton, Ilminster, Axminster, Martock, Crewkerne, Honiton, Beaminster (Dorset & Wiltshire FRS), Bridgwater, Burnham On Sea, Yeovil and Street.

The spokesman for the fire service continued: "The fire was started deliberately and caused 100% internal damage. All crews have now left the scene and duty of care has been left with the Police but we will be re-attending in the morning to liaise with the Police and assist in further fire investigation duties. There were no casualties."

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "We were called at 3.10pm to reports of a large fire in Ilminster. We are simply assisting the fire service and monitoring the situation."

A resident in the area has spoken of her shock at the scale of the blaze.

Penny McQueen said: “Its frightening, it makes you realise what the crews all do - they are in for the long haul. It is such a shame.

“Hats off to all the men and women dealing with it as it's a big one."