Homes evacuated as 35 firefighters from across Northamptonshire battle for four hours to get barn blaze under control with 600 metre cordon remaining in place
A 600 metre cordon remains in place after 35 firefighters from across Northamptonshire battled for four hours to get a large fire under control at a rural barn storing fertiliser.
Northants Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) was called just after 5.15pm on Tuesday July 28 to reports of a fire involving an agricultural barn on Banbury Lane, Blakesley.
A 600m cordon was put in place and nearby homes evacuated as the flames took hold.
Five fire appliances and two water bowsers attended the incident, including one water bowser from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, with around 35 firefighters involved in the response.
The fire was contained within a barn storing hay, straw, and approximately six-and-a-half tonnes of fertiliser.
A spokesperson for NFRS said: “Firefighters used jets and ground monitors to prevent the fire from spreading to the surrounding area.
"Their actions successfully brought the fire under control, and the incident was scaled down at around 9.30pm.
“Northamptonshire Police attended to support evacuation measures to properties nearby, while crews advised local residents to keep their windows and doors closed while emergency services dealt with the fire. A cordon was established around the scene and remains in place.”
A fire investigation is taking place today (Wednesday July 29).
An appliance remains at the location, and the fire service is expected to maintain a presence at the site for several days while the area is made safe.
A drone is also being used to monitor temperatures and the surrounding area.
NFRS added: “We would like to thank residents for their patience and cooperation while emergency services responded and continue to monitor to the incident.”