Police have launched an arson probe after a huge fire destroyed this vacant farmhouse near Burnham-On-Sea at the weekend.
Fire crews from Burnham-On-Sea were called out on three separate days to extinguish blazes at the property in Withy Road, East Huntspill, as pictured here.
Seven fire crews from Burnham, Weston and Bridgwater initially battled the huge blaze at 11.45pm on Saturday night, as we reported here.
But Burnham’s fire crews were then called back to the site again on Sunday afternoon and for a third time on Monday evening when passers-by reported seeing smoke emerging from the property.
Fire spokesman Paul Slaven told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Our investigation indicates the fires were as a result of suspected arson.”
“It is worrying when we are called to deliberate fires because fire crews could be taken away from life-threatening incidents elsewhere, putting people in danger.”
One local resident, who asked not to be named, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It is such a shame that this wonderful old building has been destroyed – the property had been derelict for some time since the owner passed away and was due to be auctioned later in just a few days time.”
Inspector Roger Tolley from Burnham Police confirmed: “Incidents like this are treated very seriously and could have a major impact if lives are threatened elsewhere.”
Anyone with information about the fires is asked to contact Burnham Police via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the non-emergency number 101.
