A significant fire broke out on Monday, August 25, sweeping through 18 gardens in Washford, causing extensive damage and prompting the suspension of steam train services by the local heritage railway company. The affected gardens, situated along Verdun Terrace beside the West Somerset Railway line, suffered severe damage as the blaze rapidly spread amid hot, dry weather conditions.
The West Somerset Railway, which runs between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead, announced that it would temporarily discontinue steam train operations in the affected area. The company explained on its website: “We apologise that we are currently operating diesel trains on the West Somerset Railway following an incident close to the track on Bank Holiday Monday. Fire spread through 18 gardens damaging several sheds and outbuildings close to the track in Verdun Terrace, Washford causing extensive damage. The fire brigade attended and are investigating the cause, which remains unknown.”
The fire’s swift spread was exacerbated by the dry weather, igniting stubble fields, farmland, and hedgerows adjacent to the railway. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded robustly to the incident, deploying ten pumping appliances, special vehicles, water jets, portable water packs, and off-road equipment to contain the fire. Road closures were implemented near Willow Grove, and the nearby railway line was temporarily suspended for safety.
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One home sustained minor fire damage, and multiple garden sheds were destroyed. Emergency personnel assessed 23 individuals for smoke inhalation as a precaution. Bampton Fire Station described the event as a “house fire” that escalated to nearby properties, farmland, and vegetation due to strong winds. Seven fire engines and various off-road vehicles worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames over two main fire sites.
Simultaneously, Taunton Fire Station reported that crews were engaged in managing two other large fires on Bank Holiday Monday, including another in Watchet and a fire at North Hill in Minehead, as well as several smaller woodland fires near Pitminster.
The investigation into the fire’s cause remains ongoing as the railway company and fire service assess the full extent of the damage and safety implications. For now, the heritage railway continues with diesel services while prioritizing safety and environmental recovery.