Suspicious Blaze Tears Through Two Barns in Barton Stacey
A massive fire has ripped through two barns in the quiet village of Barton Stacey near Andover. The blaze, which broke out on Thursday afternoon, is now being treated as suspicious by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Freezing Conditions Hamper Efforts
Firefighters are battling the inferno in bitterly cold conditions, with temperatures below zero causing water run-off to freeze on the ground. Around 40 firefighters and six fire engines from across northern Hampshire, including teams from Andover, Overton, and Basingstoke, are at the scene.
Specialist water carriers from Andover and Fareham have also been called in as crews face a tough night battling the flames.
Massive Straw Stockpile and Dangerous Asbestos Risks
The barns, housing around 5,000 bales of straw, were engulfed in flames near Difford Kennels, Cattery, and Dever Spring Trout Farm on The Street. The fire started around 4pm and rapidly spread, with firefighters confronting a serious risk as the roofs are believed to contain asbestos.
Road Closures and Ongoing Investigation
The main street remains closed to traffic due to large amounts of water on the ground, freezing in the cold weather. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, which has caused extensive damage but, fortunately, no injuries.
No injuries have been reported so far. More updates to follow.
