‘Total devastation’ was caused to the Dowty Propellers factory in Staverton this morning, in one of the biggest fires Gloucestershire has ever seen.
Chief Fire Officer, Stewart Edgar, said the blaze was one of the largest he had ever seen in his 25 year career.
Workers being turned away from the factory looked shocked to see the gutted manufacturing plant following the overnight blaze.
The county’s chief fire officer, Stewart Edgar said the fire ripped through the whole roof within 20 minutes and praised the efforts of the firefighters working in freezing temperatures throughout the night.
“This is about as largest scene of a fire I have seen. This was a major fire in Gloucestershire.
: “Our firefighters have battled in sub-zero temperatures to deal with this major fire.
“I need to thank my firefighters for their sterling efforts and we will now be focussing our efforts on identifying the cause of the fire.”
One worker, who did not wish to be named, turned up to work this morning despite hearing about the blaze and was sent away.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if it needs completely rebuilding. It is gutting. I’ve worked here for a few years now and it is a great place to work.
“Dowty has always been a major employer in Gloucestershire and I think we are just all pleased no one was hurt.
Firefighters managed to save the offices attach to the factory and surrounding buildings after the fire, which broke out at around 12.30am.