AN overnight investigation has concluded that last evening's fire that ended with 36 buses being destroyed at a rural depot, near Chadwell St Mary, was started deliberately.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News last evening (Friday, 5 June) Firefighters were called to a fire involving a number of double decker buses at a bus storage yard in Chadwell St Mary this evening.

Firefighters worked hard to get the fire under control, and by 9pm were able to reduce the number of crews at the scene to just two who stayedat the scene to extinguish hot spots and ensure the scene is left safe.

Their actions left the way open for an investigation and it has revealed the incident was arson.

Station Manager Lee Hurst said: "This was a significant and challenging incident involving a large number of vehicles.

"Thanks to the hard work and professionalism of our firefighters, supported by Essex Police, utility providers and local farmers, we were able to bring the fire under control and prevent further spread.

Fire involved a number of double decker buses

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"I would like to thank all of the partner agencies and members of the local community who assisted us throughout the incident.

"The fire investigation has determined that the fire was started deliberately.

"Anyone with information about how the fire started, or who may have seen suspicious activity in the area before the incident, is urged to contact FireStoppers anonymously on 0800 169 5558 or online at www.firestoppersreport.co.uk.

"Information provided to FireStoppers is completely anonymous and could help identify those responsible."

Terry Austin, Director at Ensignbus, said: "I can confirm that a number of vehicles at an Ensignbus storage site in Chadwell St Mary were destroyed in a fire on Friday 5 June.

"The fire is believed to have been started deliberately and investigations are ongoing. We would like to thank the emergency services for their swift response and efforts at the scene.

"Nobody was injured and no property was damaged beyond the vehicles involved.

"The incident will not impact the operation of local bus services in the Thurrock."

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