Fire at restaurant attended by crews from across Somerset ruled 'accidental'

Fire investigators have confirmed the cause of the major blaze that broke out in the kitchen of a restaurant in Taunton was 'accidental'.

That was the conclusion of an investigation by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service into the fire in the early hours of Thursday at the Bare Grills Smokehouse in Bridge Street.

The main route through the town was closed through the day causing traffic congestion across the county town.

Ten fire crews including from stations at Wellington, Williton, Wiveliscombe, and Nether Stowey were called to the major blaze which spread to the next-door Bridge Street Dental Centre.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "Following fire investigation the cause was determined to be accidental and there were no casualties. Residents in the flats above were safely evacuated and the surrounding area cordoned off to allow for safe firefighting and access for emergency services."

The massive firefighting operation continued into the afternoon as town centre roads were closed and congestion built up as drivers tried to find alternative routes.

The first firefighters on the scene were met with smoke and flames coming out of the rear of the buildings and they needed two aerial ladder platforms and used six sets of breathing apparatus to help bring the blaze under control.

Although nobody was hurt in the incident, South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust sent a double-crewed land ambulance, an operations officer, and a hazardous area response team.