FIREFIGHTERS from Wilton were part of a major multi-crew response to a thatch fire in Wiltshire – just as the future of their station hangs in the balance.
Crews from across two counties were mobilised to the blaze at the George & Dragon pub in Potterne, near Devizes, at around 5.17pm yesterday (April 1).
Initial teams worked quickly to tackle the fire, with their swift actions credited with limiting damage to the building and its thatched roof.
(Picture: Wilton Fire Station)
As the incident continued into the evening, additional support was called in from Wilton – roughly 23 miles away.
At 9pm, a relief crew of five was mobilised with a fire appliance, alongside a further two firefighters to operate the water carrier already at the scene.
The Wilton teams remained on duty late into the night, with both appliances only returning to station and being made ready for the next call by 2am.
(Picture: Wilton Fire Station)
A spokesperson said: “The swift actions of the initial crews in attendance ultimately limited the potential damage to the building & the roof.
“A fantastic effort from all the crews & resources involved from across the two counties.”
The incident highlights the vital role played by Wilton’s firefighters – not just locally, but in supporting major incidents across the wider area.
It comes, however, at a time of uncertainty for the station.
Wilton Fire Station is currently under threat of closure as part of proposals being considered by the fire authority, raising concerns about how emergency response could be affected in the future.
Fire crews from smaller stations like Wilton are often called upon to provide crucial backup at large-scale incidents, particularly in rural areas where resources can be stretched.
For many in the community, the latest call-out serves as *a reminder of the station’s value – both close to home and across the county – at a time when its future remains under review.
The consultation on closures runs until May 15. Take part at: www.dwfire.org.uk/about-us/your-fire-and-rescue-service/proposed-station-closures/
I live and work at the George &Dragon and saw first hand how the fire crews worked and dealt with the fire. I did not realise that thatch fires have a danger of constantly reigniting as the firefighters dig the thatch out by hand and unfortunately witnessed this first hand which is pretty terrifying. The work is extremely arduous and fatigues the firefighters quickly so they need breaks and constantly need to drink not to dehydrate. Wiltshire fire crews have specialist experience in thatch fires (I did not know this) and without the early detection, kind light winds and the prompt action of these amazing crews we could have lost the pub. They saved the village pub and our livelihood, their specialist training knowledge and courage was better than first class. To close Wilton Fire Station would be a tragedy for Wilton and the surrounding fire crews that need this team to be able to do what they do. I never dreamed I’d be involved in a fire and need these guys, nobody does until you do.