70 firefighters battle fire near Winchcombe (From Cotswold Journal)

70 firefighters battle fire near Winchcombe

10:23am Monday 3rd September 2012 in News By Freya Leng

SEVENTY firefighters from across Gloucestershire and Worcestershire battled for eight hours to control a fire near Winchcombe over the weekend.

Crews were called to the blaze at Postlip Mill just after 2pm on Saturday (1) after the fire spread to machinary and into the roof space.

Five crews were initially called but it was soon clear on arrival more resources were needed and a further five were called from stations including Chipping Campden and Stow.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service also sent two appliances to support the operation along with supporting appliances from Tetbury.

A Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue service spokesman said: “Crews with specialist equipment had to cut into sections of the building and significant amounts of the roof to prevent the fire spreading.

“An aerial ladder platform was used to gain access to roof areas to prevent further spread of fire. The incident was further hampered by chemicals used in the processes within the factory.

“Essential environmental measures were undertaken by the fire service in conjunction with the environmental agency and staff at the Mills to successfully ensure minimal impact to both the personnel and surrounding area.

“The 70 firefighters and senior officers involved were successful in minimising the damage to the mill which will enable the business to maintain key operations and resume normal operations within the next few days.”

An investigation has now begun into the cause of the fire.