70 firefighters tackle large fire at Whittlesford industrial site

Around 70 firefighters were called to tackle a large fire at an industrial site in Whittlesford that broke out in the early hours of Saturday morning (17 May).

Ten fire engines, two aerial appliances, two water carriers and the incident command vehicle were called to Mill Lane at about 1.45am.

Residents, particularly those south of Mill Lane, have been advised to keep their doors and windows closed for the rest of the day due to the smoke.

At its height, the fire was said to have spread across an area of about 60m by 40m and firefighters from Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Herts and Essex tackled the blaze.

By 8am, the fire was controlled and the incident had been scaled back, with six fire engines and an aerial appliance, all from Cambridgeshire, remaining at the scene.

At 11am, just two fire engines remained on site and a Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “The fire is contained and the remainder is being allowed to now burn out in a controlled manner which may take several more hours. Crews will remain at the scene ensuring this is done safely.

“A fire investigation into the cause will take place once the fire is fully out and it is safe to do so.”

William Westley C of E Primary School, which lies off Mill Lane, was not affected.