Fire in Lowestoft

13 July 2010, 07:17

A food factory in Lowestoft has been destroyed by fire.

People living near Wessex Foods in Hadenham Road were told to keep their windows and doors closed as smoke covered the area on Sunday 11th July.

More than 50 firefighters and 12 fire engines were involved in trying to save the plant- but the factory was 100% alight.

Crews are still at the scene almost 48 hours later, making sure the fire is completely out.

Firefighter Gary Phillips

These eye-witnesses caught the fire on camera...

Wessex Foods say the jobs of 150 staff are affected by the fire and a human resources team has been brought into Lowestoft to help deal with their queries. A spokesperson added: "The plant was not operational at the time of the outbreak of the fire, and full 24 hours security was in place.

"The company would like to pay tribute to the Suffolk Fire Service. It has been magnificent in dealing with this serious fire and will remain in control of the site for at least the next 24-48 hours.

"A full investigation has been instigated by the group, and a response plan to temporarily relocate production to other plants in the group."