BOSSES at a Stretham company hit by a blaze have paid tribute to the rapid response of Cambridgeshire fire service.
Paul Upton and Deanna Wood, owners of Master’s Logistical Services emailed Cambs fire to thank them on behalf of the team at the Ely Road plant where fire broke out on Thursday.
“A big thank you to all emergency services that attended the scene and to local residents for their support and understanding,” the pair said in a statement.
“Because of the sterling efforts of the fire service they were able to contain the fire and in doing so have allowed us to continue operating.
“We are still open for business and all operations will continue to run as normal.”
The cause of the fire has been confirmed as accidental.
Station Commander Martin Brown said: “The fire started from rubbish burning in an incinerator, which was located outside and to the rear of the premises. The fire then spread to a nearby lorry trailer and then to a warehouse very quickly.
“We would advise business owners to take precaution and to review their Fire Risk Assessments to ensure they cover evacuation and fire prevention, particularly when burning refuse on and near their premises.”
The blaze caused the closure of a long stretch of the A10 is under control.
PR and journalist Ellee Seymour lives in the village and heard an explosions.
“It was like lighting crashing in on us,” she said. “Big black clouds were flying over our house. It was quite terrifying.”
“I had been in my garden and thought I saw a storm cloud overhead and then heard crackling sounds. I thought we were in for a storm!
“Thankfully, and miraculously, nobody was injured. The warehouse and neighbouring property were evacuated.”
She added: “We have wonderful firemen and I am so sorry for this local company who I am told are very good.”
Three people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, one of whom was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
Officials from Environment Agency arrived to monitor for any environmental impact in the village.
Masters Logistical provides container collection from the major ports, emptying of containers, storage, picking and packing and onward distribution throughout the UK and Europe.
On Facebook and in the run up to the festive season they wrote: “Christmas is coming, your warehouse is getting fat! Give us some pennies and we’ll sort your pallets out!!”
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