THERE have been reports of a fire at Bowerings Animal Feeds at Bridgwater Docks this lunchtime.

Five fire engines were in attendance and staff evacuated from the building based at Provender Mills Docks, Anson Way.

Crews were called at 10.41am following reports of a small explosion which led to a fire within the industrial machinery.

Somerset County Gazette:

According to one eye-witness, the area was cordoned off as the firefighters dealt with the matter.

A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said: "Three crews from Bridgwater were mobilised and upon arrival found a small explosion and consequent fire within industrial machinery.

Somerset County Gazette:

"The crews then requested the attendance of two more appliances in order to ensure there is sufficient Breathing Apparatus capability."

The fire was exinguished by crews using two reel jets and a main jet, chimney gear and 18 breathing apparatus.

The firefighters left the scene at 4pm with a spokesman confirming that the fire had been contained within the grain system.

The hopper was completely destroyed and half a tonne of animal feed was also destroyed in the blaze. A spokesman for the fire service confirmed that the cause of the fire was believed to have been accidental.

Somerset County Gazette:

Last updated 4.13pm.

Somerset County Gazette: