‘Huge explosion’ cause identified
THE CAUSE of a fire which left Halifax town centre filled with smoke has been identified.
Last week, a married couple, who own Clare Street Garage and a workshop building next to it, were left devastated after an unattended wood burning stove caused a “huge explosion”, according to witnesses.
As well as an explosion, the incident caused a blazing inferno, which ripped through the workshop buidling roof, filling the town centre skyline with smoke for several hours.
Libby Wills, who co-owns both properties on Clare Street, said: “My husband has been running Clare Street Garage for over 20 years now.
“We’ve rented the property next door for around that time too.
“The property is used as a welding shop.”
West Yorkshire Fire and Resthe
occupier of the workshop was in attendance.
A WYFRS spokesperson said: “A wood burning stove had been lit earlier in the day and left unattended.
“A large fire was found in the same area as the stove, which intensified when the door was opened.
“We’d remind the public to store any potentially flammable products such as wood for a fire well away from the fire itself.”
Mrs Wills said: “My husband and I are now in a stressful situation going through the insurance company.”
Stephanie Haslam, who works in The Trading Rooms, at the Piece Hall, said: “I could smell smoke all afternoon, which was very strong. I work with team of kitchen staff and had to double check there wasn’t a fire in our kitchen.”