Firefighter condemns Sunderland allotment blaze which killed hundreds of pigeons

Crew Manager Andy Robinson, of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service’s (TWFRS) Prevention and Education team, spoke on Wednesday, June 17 following an allotment blaze in the Fulwell area of the Sunderland earlier in the week.

Seven crews were called to Fulwell Mill Allotments to fight the blaze on Sunday, June 14 overnight into Monday, June 15.

The flames could be seen for miles, and the fire destroyed large quantities of industrial, commercial and domestic waste.

Around 250 pigeons also perished in the fire, with several crees and sheds set alight.

TWFRS released a video message on social media in which the crew manager calls on the public to come forward with any information about the fire.

Mr Robinson said: “It's often very difficult for firefighters to tackle fires on allotment sites, due to access restrictions, water supply and sometimes the sheer amount of fuel that's present.

“Fires on allotment sites can easily get out of control, putting lives in real danger.

“They affect not only the allotment holders but neighbouring residents and of course the environment.

“During lockdown, allotments are a lifeline to many people, for some, providing the only link to the wider community.”

An investigation was launched into the fire this week, in conjunction with Northumbria Police.

if you have any information, contact charity FireStoppers anonymously on 0800 169 5558 or online at www.firestoppersreport.co.uk

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