A family-run pork scratchings producer has been left 'devastated' after a major fire tore through its factory, with crews using drones and an aerial platform to tackle the intense blaze.
Major Incident in Bloxwich
Flames engulfed the G Simmons & Sons Pork Scratchings factory on Newfield Close, Bloxwich, on Sunday evening (December 14). The fire broke out at approximately 7.20pm and involved two large drums of cooking oil, creating a significant challenge for emergency services.
A total of 95 firefighters, including relief crews from the West Midlands Fire Service, were deployed to bring the inferno under control. Crews used a hydraulic aerial platform to attack the fire from above, supported by drone technology to monitor the scene, as thick smoke billowed into the night sky.
Business Vows to Rebuild After 'Devastating' Blow
In a heartfelt statement shared on its Facebook page on Monday morning (December 15), the company expressed its gratitude that no employees or firefighters were injured in the incident.
The statement read: "This has been a devastating event for our family-run business and our team, and it is something we are still coming to terms with. We are incredibly grateful that no one was injured. Right now, we are carefully working through the recovery process, assessing the damage, and doing everything possible to rebuild and resume operations as soon as we are able."
The firm thanked its customers for their support and patience, adding that it was working hard to restore supply chains and would provide further updates as the situation developed.
Fire Service Operations and Community Support
West Midlands Fire Service scaled back its firefighting operations by lunchtime on Monday, December 15. However, crews revisited the site throughout the afternoon and evening to check for any remaining hotspots, ensuring the fire was completely extinguished.
The business later posted another update, expressing profound thanks for the flood of supportive messages from the local community and loyal customers. The company emphasised its commitment to getting back up and running, though the process is expected to be challenging.
The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a full assessment of the structural and operational damage to the Newfield Close factory is ongoing.
