A PARISH councillor has praised the ‘amazing community spirit’ of Distington, after a devasting fire which began to burn at a well-known Cumbrian business at the weekend.

The blaze broke out at the Tyson H Burridge Ltd site in Distington, Workington, on Friday, September 15, prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Emergency services said that there were no reported casualties following the large-scale vehicle fire in the company’s industrial yard at Distington before midnight on the evening.

Emergency services and community members were praised for their quick actions following the fire.

Speaking about the fire, Distington parish councillor Nath Martin said: “I heard someone outside shouted about a fire.

“When I looked out of the window the flames of the fire were higher than the house opposite me. And some of the bangs were absolutely terrible.”

Cllr Martin said that Hinnings Road, Coronation Crescent, Barngill Place and parts of Main Street were evacuated with residents being moved into the community centre on Church Road.

He praised the ‘fantastic ladies of the community’ who provided everyone affected with teas and coffee, as well as soup, as well as emergency services who he said supported the community throughout.

Cllr Martin said: “The emergency service crews were absolutely amazing and supported the residents through it all.

“The police officers kept everyone updated and roads were shut so nobody could enter the village unless you were a resident.

“Also a big thanks to Starbucks for providing hot drinks too. Honestly the community spirit is just amazing in Distington - that's why I'm glad to be parish councillor here.”

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was 'accidental', originating within one of the parked HGVs on site.

In a statement released by managing director of Tyson H Burridge Ltd, Neil Robinson, on September 18, he said: "On Friday, September 15 a fire broke out at the Tyson H Burridge Site in Distington, Workington.

"Emergency services were notified immediately, and the fire was brought under control and extinguished by the local fire brigade.

"We continue to work closely with the Environmental Agency to address issues arising in order to minimise impact to local residents and the environment.

"At this time, we have stood down all specialist services to concentrate on any required remedial action and would express our thanks to the local residents for their understanding as to what has been a difficult 48 hours for all concerned."