A RAPID early-morning response by Wilton Fire Station has enflamed public concern over proposals that could see the retained station closed.

Just last week, it was announced that Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority is looking at holding a 13-week public consultation on station closures.

Yesterday, Wilton firefighters were mobilised at 1.28am to a domestic fire alarm activation at a thatched cottage in Broad Chalke.

The crew arrived on scene in under 15 minutes from leaving the station and found smoke alarms sounding and smoke spreading throughout the first floor of the property.

Wearing breathing apparatus, firefighters entered the roof space and discovered smoke and hot spots around the chimney.

(Image: Wilton Fire Station)

A second appliance was requested, and crews worked initially from inside the property using chimney fire equipment.

When the fire continued to show signs of heat, firefighters tackled it from the top of the chimney using a hose reel jet, successfully extinguishing the blaze.

(Image: Wilton Fire Station)

Years of soot build-up from an oil boiler flue is believed to have been the source of the fire.

(Image: Wilton Fire Station)

Thanks to the swift actions of Wilton crew, supported by Salisbury Fire Station, the fire was contained and the residents were able to remain in their family home.

The Wilton crew returned to station just before 5am, ready for the next call.

The incident prompted an outpouring of support on social media, with many residents pointing to the call-out as clear evidence of the station’s importance.

“This is why it is so important to keep retained fire stations,” wrote one commenter, while another said, “The thought of losing Wilton fire station is horrific.”

Others highlighted the value of local response times. “Extra minutes save lives,” one resident added after seeing the appliance leave the station in the early hours.

Several praised the dedication of retained firefighters who leave their jobs and families to respond to emergencies, calling the service “vital” and “irreplaceable”.

Petitions to save the station are continuing to gather support, with residents questioning how nearby communities would be protected if Wilton were to close.

As one commenter put it: “What would we do without you?”

The Fire Brigades Union has launched a petition and is urging people to make their voices heard ahead of a meeting taking place on February 10 at City Hall in Salisbury.