A gritter lorry was extensively damaged by fire this morning near Millfield Prep School in Glastonbury. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue were alerted at 8:15 a.m. after reports of a lorry fire on Edgarley Road.
Two fire engines and a water carrier promptly responded to the scene, where police had already implemented a road closure to ensure public safety. Upon arrival, firefighters found the vehicle fully engulfed in flames. Fortunately, the driver had safely exited the lorry before emergency crews arrived.
The fire service confirmed that the council-operated gritting lorry sustained approximately 90% damage. Firefighters, equipped with breathing apparatus, directed water jets to extinguish the blaze and prevent the fire from spreading to the nearby school building.
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The fire caused significant traffic delays on the A361 throughout the day, with motorists advised to seek alternative routes. As of 5:20 p.m., the road remained closed in both directions due to ongoing emergency repairs.
A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue stated, “We were called at 8:15 a.m. to a lorry fire on Edgarley Road, close to a building owned by Millfield School. Two fire engines and a water carrier attended, alongside police managing the closure. The vehicle was fully involved on arrival, but the driver was safely out. Our crews focused on protecting the adjacent building using breathing apparatus and water jets. The council gritting lorry was about 90% damaged by fire.”