Byker Fire Was Accidental

An investigation into the cause of a major fire that ripped through a scrap yard in Byker on the 20th May has found that the fire was started accidentally.

Fire investigation officers from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service discovered that the fire was started as a result of sparks being generated when a mechanical grabber was used to pick up and move combustible materials covered in flammable liquids.

More than 70 firefighters were needed to get the fire in Albion Row under control.

Area Manager Alan Robson, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, praised the fire crews involved. He said: "This was a very intense and difficult incident and the fire developed very quickly, making it difficult to deal with. Our firefighters did extremely well to bring it under control as quickly as they did. This was a joint effort between ourselves and partner agencies and it is pleasing to note that no operational staff were injured during the incident."