A historic thatched cottage in Hale village has been destroyed by a large fire that started in its garage. Firefighters from 12 different stations were called to the 1930s property on Hale Road at 10.30pm on Tuesday, August 4, after the blaze took hold.
The house, which was unoccupied at the time, was left gutted by the fire. The road was closed overnight, and firefighters and police remained at the scene on Wednesday, August 5.
Fire crews from across the region battle the blaze
Fire engines and relief crews from Penketh, Frodsham, Winsford, Middlewich, Malpas, Knutsford, Northwich, Tarporley, Congleton, Birchwood, Runcorn and Macclesfield stations attended, along with the command unit from Northwich and two fire engines from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the blaze using two hose reel jets and two main jets. Thermal imaging cameras were used to check for hotspots, and crews removed areas of burning straw to help prevent further fire spread.
Investigation underway and appeal for witnesses
The cause of the fire is under investigation. One resident on the street said police officers had been going door to door asking for CCTV.
DS Chris Sheffield said: “Thankfully no one was in the property at the time, and no one was injured, but the detached thatched property was destroyed.”
He added: “We’re keen to speak to anyone who was travelling along Hale Road between 10pm and 11pm last night who may have seen suspicious activity or anything that didn’t seem quite right. The same goes for anyone with any information on the incident.”
Residents describe dramatic scene
Linda Brown, who lives in one of the historic properties on Hale Road, said: “I was alerted to it at about 10pm. I was in the bath when I heard the fire engines going, but I could smell something burning.”
She added: “I thought the smell was really strong, so I looked out at the back and saw the field wasn't alight. Then I looked along and saw all the blue lights. I went out and I knew immediately which house it was.”
Another Hale Road resident said: “There was a lot of activity last night. We were outside watching the whole thing. You could smell the smoke even from here. It was a dramatic event. The whole roof had gone up. It was awful.”
Historic thatched cottages under threat
The thatched cottages throughout Hale are a distinct and charming feature of the village. Some date back to the 17th century and are Grade II-listed with Historic England, meaning they are of special architectural or historic interest and considered of national importance.
Linda Brown expressed concerns about living in such properties: “I'm always on high alert. I'm always worried. It's a nightmare. First of all they're practically unmortgageable, and secondly the insurance on them is hugely expensive and there's lots of caveats you have to conform to.”
She added: “Over the last three years we've had three very, very dry summers, and it opens up the thatch somewhat and the birds take bits. When it starts raining, God knows what's going to happen.”
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze began with a car in the garage and spread to the house. The homeowner was not in at the time.
Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or via the website quoting IML 2389031. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
