FIRE crews have been working through the night to control a blaze at a derelict Somerset building.

The large fire started at a derelict former bank building in Market Street, Crewkerne, at around 12.15pm yesterday afternoon.

At its peak, 14 fire engines were on the scene, with a Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson saying the police and ambulance services were also in attendance.

By 5.15pm, fire crews had begun 'scaling down' the response.

The spokesperson said: "Crews have made an opening in the roof space to assist in ventilating the property and locating the location of the fire."


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By just after 6pm, three fire crews remained on the scene.

Through the evening, crews worked to ensure the building was safe.

"Crews are at work with the aerial ladder platform, cutting away the roof to gain access," the spokesperson said.

"Also, small tools are being used to also gain access to damp down the property."

Somerset County Gazette:
PREVIOUS INCARNATION: When the building was a branch of NatWest

The fire service has confirmed the building, which measures around 20m by 20m in size, made of stone and brick, was 80% damaged by fire and heat on the roof and third floor, while the rest of the building was 100% damaged by smoke.

Crews remained through the night, the spokesperson added.

The branch of NatWest formerly housed in the building closed in June 2018, with the building sold for £220,000 the following year.

Somerset County Gazette: FIRE: At the derelict building in market Street, Crewkerne

Somerset County Gazette: FIRE: At the derelict building in market Street, Crewkerne

Somerset County Gazette: FIRE: At the derelict building in market Street, Crewkerne

Somerset County Gazette: FIRE: At the derelict building in market Street, Crewkerne