Discarded cigarette sparks pub fire

Firefighters were called to a pub in Wivenhoe during the early hours of this morning after a neighbour woke to see a fire in the venue’s outdoor area.

On arrival, crews reported that fencing and an outbuilding were alight. They quickly worked to contain the fire, prevent it from spreading to the main building, and fully extinguish it.

Firefighters then spent time cutting away sections of fencing to make sure the area was completely cooled and safe.

Watch Manager Darren Holliday, Colchester Fire Station, said:

"After reviewing the scene and watching CCTV footage, we found that a cigarette had been discarded in the outdoor area about four hours earlier. It had slowly smouldered before igniting nearby materials, eventually causing a much larger fire.

“With the warm weather and current wildfire warnings, it’s more important than ever to double-check your cigarette is fully stubbed out and safely thrown away.”

This incident follows a similar fire the previous night, when the same crew responded to a shed fire at a new-build property in Cranesbill Close, Stanway, Colchester.

Crews arrived to find a large garden fire, with smoke entering the house. Once again, the cause was found to be a discarded cigarette.

Watch Manager Holliday added:

“These incidents show how easily a small action can lead to a serious fire. We’re asking everyone - whether you're at home, out in your garden, or enjoying a night out - to take a moment and make certain cigarettes are completely out before you walk away. It really could prevent a fire.”