FIRECREWS  from Newton Abbot Fire Station were among those mobilised to assist in today’s (Monday, July 29)  large industrial fire at Heathfield.

Both of the town’s fire engines  responded to the incident, along with another six pumps from across Devon, two Aerial Ladder Platforms and two water bowsers plus support vehicles, just after 1pm this afternoon

First crews on the scene saw a large quantity of smoke and fire was issuing from the roof of a vehicle workshop and due to a variety of significant hazards, including well alight and exploding cylinders, as well as the structure collapsing, the decision was made to fight the fire defensively.

Both ALP's were pitched, un-crewed, above the building, and were used as water towers to cascade water onto the fire from above,’ said a spokesperson for Newton Abbot Fire Station.

‘Multiple ground monitors were also put in place around the building so that water could be applied to the fire whilst maintaining firefighter safety.’

‘Upon our departure, relief crews wearing BA (Breathing Apparatus) were being utilised to enter the building in order to damp down the hotspots that remained. ‘

Crews will be on scene throughout the night in order to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.