Huge flames destroyed most of the hay barn as fire crews worked to control the blaze
A huge blaze engulfed an east London barn with horses being taken to safety.
The hay barn on Painters Road in Ilford caught fire at 7.55pm on Sunday March 22. Around 60 firefighters rushed to the scene and London Fire Brigade confirmed that the initial fire crews supported owners in leading three horses to a safe location.
The animals did not sustain any injuries during the incident.
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As the hay caught alight roaring flames could be seen inside the open sided barn. The outbuilding has a corrugated iron roof and was mostly destroyed in the blaze.
LFB said that 60 firefighters tackled the flames, with the fire being controlled by 10.30pm. Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the night to damp down hotspots.
Hainault Road was closed for some time as fire crews attempted to stop the blaze.
LFB mobilised crews from Hainault, Ilford, Dagenham, Romford, Harold Hill and Barking fire stations.
One of the Brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladders was used at the scene as a water tower to tackle flames from height. A drone was also deployed to survey the incident from above, providing live images and thermal imagery.
Station Commander Stephen Irvine was at the scene, he said: “At the height of the incident Hainault Road was closed and motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.
“This incident is expected to be a protracted incident and crews will be at the scene of the fire throughout the night damping down remaining hotspots.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
