THE cause of a barn fire in which it is believed up to 40,000 chicks died is still under investigation.
Firefighters were called to Beckford Poultry Farm, in Beckford, near Evesham, at about 10pm on Tuesday after reports of a barn fire.
Two fire engines from Evesham, a water carrier and two appliances from Tewkesbury rushed to the scene and discovered a single storey farm building ablaze in Ashton Road.
The 25 m (80 ft) by 80 m (260 ft) building was gripped by two separate fires, with the first relief crews called in from Broadway in the early hours of yesterday.
Despite firefighters’ efforts the metal framed building was detroyed in the blaze.
Sam Jones, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman, said: ”There were 40,000 chicks in there at the time and I think they have gone in the fire.”
She added a fire investigation officer had been to the scene but the cause of the blaze was still not known.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here