Arsonists burn down historic Cadbury barn
AN historic 120-year-old Birmingham barn, once owned by the Cadbury family, has been destroyed by arsonists.
Firefighters were called to deal with the blaze at the Cadbury Barn at Manor Farm Park, just off Bristol Road South, at around 3am on Monday.
The fire happened three years to the day after the Cadbury Manor House – on the same site – was destroyed by arsonists.
West Midlands Fire Service received 60 calls from concerned members of the public. In all, 23 firefighters battled until 10am to bring the fire under control but the timber barn, built in 1895 for George and Elizabeth Cadbury on their estate, was totally destroyed.
Northfield Fire Station tweeted: “Red Watch currently at last night’s six-engine fire in Manor Farm Park, years of history gone in a few hours.”
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said: “We sent six fire engines to the scene and 23 firefighters tackled the blaze, but unfortu- nately the barn was totally destroyed.
“It is very sad as it was of historical value. We believe it was an arson attack and police have been notified.”
The barn was of architectural and historical significance, particularly through its association with the Quaker/Cadbury philanthropy.
It was built specifically to host large parties, mainly for children from deprived areas of Birmingham and the Black Country.
The children would be treated to a day out in the countryside, with activities such as swimming, then enjoy tea in the spacious barn.
During the Second World War the barn, together with adjacent farm buildings, was used as the national training camp for the Quaker-led Friends Ambulance Unit.
A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating the fire at Manor Farm Park which we believe to be arson. Anyone with any information should contact us on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”