FIREFIGHTERS’ quick response to a massive blaze at a Bromsgrove garage helped prevent a potential explosion on Saturday evening (March 20).

The drama began at 5.15pm when the fire, at Spa Cars, in Birmingham Road on the A38, was first reported to the fire service.

Two fire crews from Bromsgrove rushed to the scene, joined by firefighters from Droitwich, Hereford, Kidderminster, Malvern, Redditch, Studley, Stratford, Stourport and Worcester.

Throughout the night over 80 firefighters, some using breathing apparatus, tackled the blaze. They used various equipment including an aerial ladder platform, a command unit, water carrier and jets.

The fire was brought under control after around six hours, but has virtually destroyed the building. The firm sells used and old vehicles, and as the fire spread, a number of cars were destroyed.

Police feared a potential explosion as, on arrival, crews found a heavily smoke logged workshop with acetylene gas cylinders inside, while the garage is also next to an Esso petrol station.

People were evacuated from nearby properties by police, who also took the decision to close roads around the site for several hours.

Eyewitness, Joanna Bennett, who had organised a charity fundraiser at nearby Lickey End Social Club, told the Advertiser/Messenger police took the decision to evacuate Alcester Road at around 7.30pm.

A spokesman for Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said an initial call reported the workshop area was heavily smoke-logged, while a later call reported the entire two floor structure was alight.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, and the police.