The building, in Creech St Michael, was completely destroyed, firefighters said. Pictures: Taunton Fire Station

Building near Taunton ‘completely destroyed’ by overnight fire – 150 cattle saved

Paul JonesJuly 11, 20250 Comment0

A BUILDING near Taunton was “completely destroyed” by fire overnight – with 150 cattle protected from the flames.

Firefighters from Taunton and Wellington were initially sent to reports of a property fire in the Langaller area, near Creech St Michael, at 10.24pm.

After arriving at the scene, fire crews requested support from two more engines, sent from Taunton and Bridgwater.

“Crews confirmed that the building is well alight and are at work using a hose reel jet to prevent any fire spread,” a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said at just after 10.30pm.

“A request was made for the attendance of an aerial ladder platform, this was mobilised from Taunton.”

Soon after, a water carrier was also sent to the scene, from Bridgwater, as fire crews battled the blaze.

“This is a building measuring approximately 20x5m, made of tile and brick construction, all floors and roof fully involved in fire,” the spokesperson added.

“Crews are at work using three hose reel jets. A head count of 150 cattle confirmed not to be involved with the farmer and in the care of the farmer who is on scene.”

By around 1am, crews were ‘scaling down’ the incident, with firefighters from Chard and Ilminster sent to take over.

And by 3am, the scene was being damped down using the aerial ladder platform and a main jet.

At 5am, the spokesperson added: “Crews have confirmed that the property is completely destroyed by fire, with parts of the building still smouldering due to dangerous conditions of the building and difficult access.

“A revisit has been scheduled by crews for later on this morning.”