Huge blaze in Suffolk: 9,000 tonnes of straw caught fire

The fire broke out on Dagworth Lane in Haughley at around 10pm last night, 15th April. 

Since then, 10 fire crews have been attending the scene. Their work is still ongoing. 

No livestock or people have been injured. 

A spokesperson for Suffolk Fire and Rescue said the firefighters are likely to be there for the rest of the day to ensure the fire dampens down. 

Nearby residents from Stowmarket and Stowupland have been asked to keep the windows and doors shut due to a large amount of smoke blowing in that direction and avoid visiting the area. 

NFU Mutual fire advice

To help reduce the risk of fire damage to hay and straw and surrounding property store it:

• separately (at least 10 metres) from other buildings, particularly those housing fuel, agrochemicals and machinery
• in stacks of reasonable size, spaced at least 10 metres apart
• away from areas commonly accessed by the public
• separately from livestock housing other than where used as bedding

In addition:

• if stored in buildings, only use those of non-combustible construction
• store petrol, diesel and other fuel in secure areas and lock storage tank outlets
• keep fertilisers and pesticides under lock and key
• dispose of refuse safely and regularly
• carry out electrical safety checks regularly in all areas where straw or hay are stored

Read more rural news.