Garden centre warehouse damaged in large fire

The garden centre said it would be closed on Saturday while the damage was assessed

A "significant portion" of a garden centre warehouse has been "destroyed" by a large blaze, a fire service has said.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said it was alerted at 01:27 GMT and crews from 14 fire stations were called to The Old Well Garden Centre near Uffculme, in Devon.

It said on arrival the warehouse was well alight.

The service added: "Crews have made steady progress through the night using hose reel jets, safety jets and an aerial ladder to control the fire. The incident is beginning to be scaled down as crews locate and dampen down hotspots."

'Huge shock'

Due to smoke, residents in the area are being asked to keep their windows and doors closed.

The garden centre said it would be closed on Saturday while the damage was assessed.

Outdoor display areas, the cafe, restaurant, gift shop and food hall had escaped damage, it said in a statement on social media.

"It's been a tough day, a huge shock and a massive blow to our family business," it added.

'Speedy and brave'

Nathan Brina, from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Crews have done a fantastic job of protecting and stopping the spread of the fire into some of the remaining structures.

"The fire is currently under investigation."

Rachel Gilmour, who is the MP for Tiverton and Minehead, posted on Facebook: "I am saddened to hear about the fire at the Old Well Garden Centre that began in the early hours of this morning.

"My thoughts go out to the owners, David and Christine, as well as to the rest of their team.

"Thank you to the fire service and emergency teams for their speedy and brave assistance."

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed it was made aware of the fire but was not required to assist.