A CAR DEALERSHIP has made an emotional tribute after this morning’s blaze in Malmesbury.
Five fire crews from across Wiltshire and Gloucestershire rushed to Hyams Auto in the high street at around 3am to battle the blaze.
Concerned that the fire could involve flats above the car dealers, firefighters entered the flames in an attempt to rescue any people inside.
‘We are very grateful’
Hyams Autos have now released a statement on Facebook saying they were ‘very grateful’.
They said: “We have had a fire and we are absolutely devastated.
“In 47 years we have never had anything like this happen ever, it's a terrible shock but we are also feeling very grateful at the same time.
“We are so very grateful to know one was hurt.
READ MORE: Crews battle blaze at town centre car dealership
“We are extremely grateful to the Wiltshire fire brigade that acted quickly and stopped the fire spreading.”
Photos by Malmesbury resident Orrin Jewell show the damage of the blaze to flats above the car dealers.
No one has been reported to have been hurt in the incident and a fire investigation is ongoing.
Free hot drinks for firefighters
A kindhearted cafe owner handed out free hot drinks to the firefighters and first responders working at the huge fire in Malmesbury.
Khalya James, 46, who has owned Jackdaws coffee shop for three years said it was the ‘right thing’ to do.
Jackdaws coffee shop is just down the road from Hyams Auto.
“It’s crazy what happened. I really wasn’t expecting to see this on a Saturday morning,” he said.
“I got to the cafe at about 8am, saw all the police and fire engines and found out that they had closed the high street.
“Luckily there was not much damage.
“I went out there at about 8.30am saw about 5 firefighters and 5 police officers as they had finished the job
“I went up to them and offered warm drinks for free.
“They said they were ready to go back to bed after working throughout the night.
“A firefighter made a list of what they needed, they had tea and loads of coffee.
“They did such a great job, it could've easily happened to us at our coffee shop.
“It’s quite scary to imagine what could have happened
“If I was younger I would’ve joined in and tried to help.”
Ongoing fire investigation
Firefighters from Tetbury, Cirencester as well as Chippenham, Swindon and Corsham all attended today’s incident.
A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews were called to the scene at 2:57am.
They said: “A call was received from a member of the public stating they could see smoke coming from the roof of the building, quickly followed by further callers who confirmed flames were visible.
“Upon arrival it was unknown if there were any persons in the flat above.
“Firefighters forced entry and used rapid deployment putting themselves directly into the risk area to make an immediate start on tackling the fire.
“15 breathing apparatus wearers, 2 hose reel jets, a covering jet, small gear and thermal imaging cameras were used to extinguish the blaze, which also saw multiple vehicles damaged.
“Crews continued working throughout the morning to ensure the safety of the scene."
A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “We are assisting the fire service as they make enquiries to establish the cause of the fire.”
'Thank you for your kindness'
The statement from Hyams Autos continues on to say they are thankful to everyone in Malmesbury that have reached out to offer help.
They said: “We are grateful that the flats and businesses next to us are okay.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone that has reached out to us in the community and the businesses that have offered us help and support the messages we have received.
“It all means so much, thank you for your kindness.
“Lastly we are extremely grateful for our amazing staff who have all helped and supported Paul so much today.
“We will keep you updated with what we know when we know it.”
Well-wishers on social media have also been leaving kind messages for the Hyams Autos team.
One commenter said: “Hope all ok, hugs to Paul and all the staff, well done to all the firefighters who attended
Another said: “So sorry to hear that, I hope nobody was hurt and any damage is minimal.
People have also been thanking Khalya and his team at Jackdaws.
One commenter said: “So generous. Sending thoughts to Paul and his team.”
Another said: “That's Malmesbury for you, always quick to do good."
Another comment read: “What lovely folk they are at Jackdaws. Condolences to those who have been impacted by the fire.”
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