Airfield fire devastating for community says firm

A huge blaze broke out at Old Sarum Airfield on Thursday

A skydive group says a fire which ripped through a Grade II*-listed World War One airfield hangar is "devastating" for the community.

Investigations are ongoing into the huge blaze that broke out at the Old Sarum Airfield on Lancaster Road in Salisbury on Thursday evening.

The blaze completely destroyed a hangar and the adjacent restaurant and cafe. GoSkydive, based at the airfield, said it had also spread to their premises and the firm had cancelled all skydiving activities while safety checks were carried out.

It said "while the damage is only partial, safety is and always will be our absolute priority".

The firm said "our hearts are particularly heavy for our friends" at the cafe which "lost their entire premises".

"They have been more than just neighbours – they've been an essential part of the GoSkydive experience, serving countless customers and staff over the years," a spokesperson said.

The fire comes just a week after developers - Old Sarum Airfield Ltd - were given the go-ahead for up to 315 homes to be built there..

Company director Gary Squires said he was "deeply saddened" by the damage and the company was "co-operating fully with the authorities" while awaiting the outcomes of the investigations.

"Our immediate focus is on supporting the investigation and assessing the extent of the damage," he said.

GoSkydive said it has cancelled all skydiving activities over Easter weekend to "thoroughly assess" the damage to its premises.

"Looking ahead, we anticipate resuming our operations in early May, subject to completing all necessary safety investigations and weather conditions permitting", it said.

"For those with bookings affected by this closure, our customer service team will be in touch directly to arrange alternative dates."