Emergency services responded to a suspected deliberate fire in Glastonbury on Friday, September 11, resulting in one caravan being completely destroyed and another badly damaged. The fire broke out shortly after 4pm, prompting the mobilisation of three fire crews from Street, Somerton, and Wells.
Firefighters reported that one caravan was “100 per cent destroyed,” while another suffered approximately “20 per cent damage”. Additionally, around a 10-metre section of nearby hedgerow was affected, with roughly “40 per cent” burned.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. Fire crews concluded their operations on the scene shortly after 6pm.
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Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service indicated that the fire is believed to have been deliberately started, although there is currently no confirmed link between this event and the recent tensions in the town.
A service spokesperson stated: “Three fire engines attended following reports of a caravan fire. Crews utilised one main attack jet, one hose reel jet, and thermal imaging cameras during the operation.”
This incident follows a series of similar events in Glastonbury, including a suspected arson attack in June that damaged multiple caravans and a nearby Tesco store. That fire also caused extensive damage, with dramatic images showing large flames engulfing the caravans.
In response to ongoing issues, Somerset Council recently announced plans to install new double yellow lines across certain areas of Glastonbury to deter unauthorised roadside encampments. These restrictions will cover all four approaches to the Morland roundabout, which links Morland Enterprise Park to the A39 Street Road.
Glastonbury has become a recognised hub for van dwellers, often described as the “UK’s van life capital.” As of late February-the most recent data available-131 individuals were recorded living in vans, caravans, or motorhomes parked on the roadside within the town.