A LARGE derelict building in Taunton was “totally destroyed” by fire last night.

Firefighters were called to the scene, in the Comeytrowe area, at around 7.15pm on Monday evening (April 14).

Two crews from Taunton attended, with another from Wellington also called out due to “the number of calls received”.

“Once in attendance crews confirmed a large derelict commercial premises well alight and got to work extinguishing the fire,” a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) spokesperson said

“Crews have asked that due to the construction of the property that people in the local area stay away from the scene while we deal with the fire and we are advising that you keep windows and doors closed while our crews are on scene.”

At just after 9.30pm, fire crews confirmed the “derelict building”, measuring 37m x 8m, was “totally destroyed in the fire”.

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“Crews dampened down roofing sheets due to the construction of the building to prevent the smoke plume reaching local housing estates,” the spokesperson added.

“Two hose reel jets and a thermal imaging camera were used to bring the fire under control.”

Police were also at the scene and fire investigators will return today.

This morning, a DSFRS spokesperson added: “The majority of the building has now successfully burnt out, a few hotspots remain. Crews will attend the scene this morning to monitor the situation.”

Firefighters were called to the scene, in Comeytrowe, Taunton, at around 7.15pm. Picture: Taunton Fire Station