Pledge to help businesses hit by major fire

A huge plume of smoke could be seen from the fire when it broke out, the fire service said

Efforts are under way to support businesses hit by a major fire at an industrial building.

A Worcestershire county councillor has pledged support for those affected by the blaze at Bury End Farm in Rectory Road, near Upton upon Severn.

A fundraiser was also set up for a man who owned a private gym but, the page claimed, had lost his unit, equipment, personal trophies and livelihood.

Seven fire engines were called to the scene just before 07:00 GMT on Saturday with residents at the time urged to keep windows and doors closed because of the thick, black smoke.

The cause of the blaze, which is being investigated, is still not known, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said.

The fire could be a "terrible loss" for firms at the site, councillor Martin Allen said

Councillor Martin Allen said he feared the effects of the fire would be a "terrible loss" to firms at the site and he was determined to help them.

He said he would go, when it was safe, to check out the extent of the damage and then write to the county and district councils to appeal for help.

“My understanding at the moment is that four businesses have been affected, but of course there may be more," he said.

Any of those affected could get in touch with him through social media, phoning or emailing him, he said.

Meanwhile, the fundraising page said Martin Burford had lost everything in his private gym in the fire.

The person who set up the page said he had "poured his heart and soul" into the venture and they wanted to help him "return to glory".

The cause of the blaze was under investigation, the fire service said