Cylinders explode and building collapses during fire

Fire crews from across two counties were called to the fire which broke out in the early hours of this morning.

Half the building collapsed and gas cylinders inside the unit exploded as crews fought the blaze.

Those living near the scene of the blaze in Basingstoke were told to stay away and keep their doors and windows closed due to the thick smoke.

An investigation is underway today into the cause of the fire at the industrial estate off Harrow Way.

The fire started just after midnight and fire chiefs called 15 fire engines as well as well as an aerial ladder platform from across Hampshire with support from colleagues in Berkshire and Surrey.

Fire officer in charge, area manager Steve Trevethick, said: “On arrival, the initial crews were faced with a fully developed fire in the light industrial block which was rapidly spreading from the front to the back of the building and across to other industrial units, with a large amount of smoke issuing.

“The building had partially collapsed. There were also several large explosions involving LPG cylinders.

“Due to the swift, co-ordinated approach of crews we were able to prevent the fire spreading to further adjoining units and businesses and contained the fire within 50 per cent of the industrial unit that was ablaze.”