West Chiltington blaze - latest

Ten fire engines from across the county were mobilised shortly after 3.30pm yesterday (Friday, March 12)to a detached house in Coolham Rd.

The owner and three other adults managed to escape safely before fire crews arrived from nearby Storrington, and there were no reports of any injuries.

The fire is believed to have broken out on the ground floor close to the main electrical intake, before spreading rapidly to the whole of the first floor and roof space.

Fire service spokesman Gary Towson said: "When firefighters arrived, smoke was pouring from the roof and flames shooting from windows at the front and back of the property.

"Teams of breathing-apparatus wearers entered the house, but faced a severe fire with intense heat as they made their way up the stairs.

"The fire was knocked down but teams were then forced to withdraw as the ceilings began to collapse.

"Crews then commenced defensive firefighting operations and salvaged valuables and personal belongings for the owner."

A specialist water carrier was used to supply a temporary dam and give a constant water supply for firefighting.

Fire crews remained at the house overnight damping down hotspots.

Crews from Worthing, Shoreham, Littlehampton, Steyning, Arundel and Storrington joined firefighters from Haywards Heath, Petworth, Billingshurst, Horsham and Henfield to tackle the blaze.

EDF Energy isolated the electrical supply, and the B2139 was closed at Dukes Hill between Thakeham and West Chiltington Rd.

A Building Control Officer from Horsham District Council has also attended to advise on the stability of the premises.

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