FIREFIGHTERS in the North East are investigating how a blaze at a Teesside farm last night (March 23) started after concerned residents could see the flames from the A19.
Emergency crews from Cleveland Fire and Rescue Service and Cleveland Police attended the incident at Stainsby Hill Farm, Acklam Road, Thornaby, at around 8.20pm.
By the time fire units arrived on the scene, a large pile of straw was already engulfed in flames, while the smoke could be seen by residents billowing from the incident for miles around.
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A spokesperson for Cleveland Fire and Rescue Service said: “Cleveland Fire Brigade were called out at 7.54pm last night to reports of a fire at Stainsby Hill Farm, Acklam Road, Thornaby.
"One appliance from Thornaby was initially sent. Upon arrival the crews found a large amount of baled straw alight. Altogether four Crews and appliances rotated throughout the night on protective standby while the fire burnt out. Police were informed. The incident was closed at 7.55am this morning."
Into the evening, the fire burned at the Thornaby Farm, with firefighters staying at the scene around the clock.
This morning, the agricultural buildings were shells and debris was seen at the site of the fire.
Here's some photos of last night's fire:
Pictures: TEESPIX
It’s estimated that ‘thousands of pounds’ worth of damage has been done to the farm, with fire investigators and police officers remaining at the scene to investigate the factors of the fire.
It’s currently unknown how the incident occurred.
Police were informed of the incident, due to the potential risk to road users from smoke, due to the proximity to the A19, but no action needed to be taken.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson added: “Police were made aware of a fire at Stainsby Hill Farm at around 8.20pm on Wednesday, March 23. Cleveland Fire Brigade colleagues attended and dealt with the incident.”
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