Homes evacuated after bungalow blaze

11:12am Wednesday 27th August 2008

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HOMES were evacuated in Chipping Sodbury after a bungalow blaze this morning.

Neighbours were forced out of their homes in the early hours after the derelict property caught fire.

Teenagers are believed to be responsible for the fire on Cotswold Road, which took five fire crews nearly two hours to put out.

Avon Fire and Rescue spokeswoman Stephanie Mounsey said: "As it was quite a windy night there were plenty of red embers and sparks coming off the property and there were concerns that neighbouring houses might catch alight.

"Four people were evacuated from two neighbouring properties although no-one was inside the building on fire."

A local police officer spotted the blaze during a routine patrol of the area at around 2am.

More than 20 nearby residents also alerted the fire service to the flames and two crews from Yate were on the scene in minutes.

When firefighters realised the extent of the blaze they called for back-up and two more crews from Speedwell and one from Kingswood attended.

They used three high pressure hose reels and three jets to dampen the flames.

Fire safety officers completed investigating the scene this morning and have confirmed to police it was arson.

Neighbourhood acting Sergeant Neil Whyman told the Gazette: "Officers helped to secure and preserve the scene.

"We closed off the road and an area tour was carried out.

"Four suspects were seen and made off on foot. A foot chase ensued and all four were caught and arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life."

The four, all in the mid to late teens and from Yate and Chipping Sodbury, are currently in custody pending further inquiries.

Sgt Whyman added: "We would appeal for any witnesses to this incident to come forward."

Anyone who saw anything suspicious should call the police on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.