Drivers described seeing a large explosion and a raging fire believed to be from a fireworks depot next to RAF Welford, near Boxford, Berkshire, with smoke rising above the M4
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Berkshire: A large barn fire spotted on the M4 near Boxford
An explosion near RAF Welford sent huge clouds of smoke into the sky over the M4.
The highway was closed in both directions around the site in Newbury, Berkshire, and at the moment there are fire crews at the scene.
The Royal Fire and Rescue Service of Berkshire said the incident, reported around 1.40pm on Saturday, included “possible pyrotechnics and fireworks”.
A statement said: “At 1:41 p.m. on Saturday, we received reports of a fire in an industrial building in Westbrook, Newbury.
“The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) from Newbury, Thiel and two officers are currently on the scene, along with teams from the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
“Firefighters have discovered a fire involving possible pyrotechnics and fireworks.
“Borders have been set, but people have been urged to stay away from the area while emergency services deal with the blaze.”
He added in a tweet: “Fire crews are currently witnessing a large fire near the M4 J14-13 highway.
“Please limit calls to emergencies only, as crews are extremely busy. Thank you.”
Have you witnessed this incident? Let us know at webnews@mirror.co.uk
A huge stream of white smoke over a raging fire near the M4 in Berkshire Fire Service said the incident could include fireworks (
Image:
@OliverDSolberg / Twitter)
The east and west lanes were closed to traffic between junction 13 (Newbury) and junction 14 (Hungerford) at around 2:55 p.m.
Drivers passing by described seeing a raging fire, initially mistaken for the RAF’s ammunition depot.
A video taken by Charlotte Ward of the Boxford Games Park shows a thick stream of white smoke and flames rising above the line of trees and in the sky.
One commentator said the incident probably came from a barn where fireworks were stored.
Inrix, the traffic data company, said: “M4 Eastbound closed due to a fire in the building from J14 A338 (Hungerford) to J13 A34Cheeves / Newbury).
“Notice the change of direction. It was initially reported to be in the west. Detained traffic is released through the source sheet.
“Initially, all traffic was stopped shortly after 2:55 p.m.”
The RAF base is currently under the command of the 420th Ammunition Squadron and the 501st Combat Support Wing.
Mirror contacted the fire department for more information.
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