FIRE crews tackled a large fire started by a ruptured fuel tank on a boat at Laburnam House in West Huntspill yesterday (May 28) afternoon.

Crews from Taunton, Bridgwater, Burnham On Sea, Street, Yeovil, Cheddar, Martock, Somerton, and Wells were all needed to put out the fire that had spread to the neighbouring building at the site.

A spokesperson from the Devon and Somerset Fire Service said: "Fire Control received 23 calls reporting a fire in Highbridge.

"3 Fire appliances and an Aerial Ladder Platform were immediately mobilised and a further 2 Fire Appliances were added to the response due to the number of calls and the large amount of smoke seen by members of the public."

After arriving, crews found one 20ft boat was well alight and the fire had spread to adjoining premises measuring 20m x 8m.

"A fuel tank had ruptured on a boat with 30 litres of fuel spill which was being treated with CAFS (foam)," the spokesperson said.

"3 x 45kg cylinders were removed and two 19kg cylinders from the boat yard to avoid flame infringement.

"Western Power Distribution were requested to assist with isolation of electricity supply. Police were also in attendance."

By 20:24 the fire was extinguished, however this was after fire had spread from a boat being repaired to the adjacent building causing 50% damage from fire and heat, with the rest of the building suffering light smoke damage.

"Crews used 7 BA in total, 4 main jets, 1 CAFS (foam) jet and 2 Light Portable Pumps from open water and a hydrant. A triple extension ladder was also used along with 4 Thermal Imaging Cameras to check for hotspots."

"The cause of the fire was accidental."