A LARGE fire at a factory in Chard, reported to the Devon and Somerset fire and rescue services on January 2, was found by emergency services to have been started deliberately.
“We believe the fire was started deliberately,” a spokesperson for the Devon and Somerset fire and rescue services said January 3.
Fire crews from Chard and Ilminster stations were called at 12.40pm to the old Oscar Mayer Factory which was “well alight” according to the firefighters.
Due to large amounts of toxic smoke in the area, advice has been given to nearby Chard residents to close all their windows and doors for the remainder of yesterday evening.
The fire services sent three fire crews from Chard and Ilminster stations to extinguish the fire using breathing apparatus, water, air foam, main and safety jets, a gas monitor, positive pressure ventilation and drain mats.
The building sustained reasonable damage from the flames which is visible from the outside with scorch and burn marks running along the building's structure.
The incident is now being investigated by the Avon and Somerset police who were also at the scene on January 2.
A spokesperson for the Avon and Somerset police said: "Enquiries are ongoing following a fire in Chard yesterday afternoon (Thursday, January 2).
"Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service made us aware of an incident they were responding to where a temporary building was alight at an old factory site in Furnham Road, and officers subsequently attended.
"Anyone with information that could assist our investigation into the criminal damage caused should please contact us online or on 101 quoting reference number 5224055172."
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