Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Stourbridge this afternoon (Friday, August 14) following a devastating fire that tore through the town, forcing families to evacuate. The blaze, believed to have started at Stourbridge Golf Club, spread rapidly to nearby homes, prompting evacuations yesterday (Thursday, August 13).
Properties Destroyed and Evacuations
At least six properties were destroyed by the fire, which sent huge plumes of smoke into the air above the town. A number of homes were evacuated, and those displaced have not yet been informed when they will be able to return.
Burnham was joined by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles as he spoke with first responders and evacuated residents. He was seen walking through the town alongside Parker, with locals looking on.
Major Incident Declared
West Midlands Fire Service declared a major incident following the blaze, which comes amid a series of fires across the UK during scorching hot weather. Three firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation, as were six members of the public, according to WMFS. A child and a boy were taken to hospital for further treatment.
Fire crews remain at various scenes in the area today, working to dampen down hotspots. These include Quarry Park Road (and adjoining roads), Ounty John Lane, Racecourse Lane, Norton Road, Worcester Lane, Mount Rose Drive, and Stourbridge Golf Course.
Ongoing Response and Cause Unknown
The cause of the fire has not yet been shared by officials. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Richard Stanton said: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone affected by this fire. We know a number of families have seen their homes destroyed or seriously damaged and our thoughts are with everyone that has been affected by this incident."
Stanton added: "Our crews have been working incredibly hard overnight and into this morning to get things under control and the situation is vastly improved from yesterday afternoon but we’ll have resources at the scene for some time yet. Please, help us by staying away from the incident ground."
