A massive fire engulfed a poultry farm, causing a significant smoke cloud to hover over an area in Cheshire. The incident at The Grange on Checkley Lane near Bridgemere prompted the deployment of ten fire engines, with residents advised to keep windows and doors shut due to the heavy smoke presence.
The blaze ignited early in the morning around 6:30 am, keeping firefighters on site for over 12 hours. Images released by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service depict a completely charred chicken shed spanning an area of four acres, equivalent to more than two football fields.
Witnesses, including drivers on the M6 and locals in the vicinity, reported witnessing a large smoke plume billowing from the scene. Specialized equipment like an aerial ladder platform, water bowser, and high-volume pumps were utilized to combat the fire.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue confirmed their ongoing efforts at the empty chicken shed, emphasizing the use of multiple hose reels and main jets to control the fire’s spread externally. Residents nearby were advised to keep their residences sealed off due to the extensive smoke plume.
An update provided at 4 pm indicated the reduction of fire engines on-site, with continued damping down of the area. Aaron Collis, Area Manager at Cheshire Fire and Rescue, praised the collaborative efforts of emergency services in managing the situation and scaling back the incident. A joint investigation with Cheshire Constabulary will be launched to determine the fire’s origin.
Local residents were thanked for their patience and cooperation during the event, with ongoing advice to keep doors and windows closed if affected by smoke.
