Fire crews battle blaze at derelict school building in Dewsbury
A fire has broken out at a derelict school building in West Yorkshire.
Firefighters rushed to the scene at the former Birkdale High School in Wheelwright Drive, Dewsbury yesterday (March 25) evening and continued to battle the blaze through the night into this morning (March 26).
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue were called at just before 6.40pm on Wednesday evening. Crews have worked to put out the fire overnight and four crews still on scene as of 6am on Thursday.
The firefighters were initially unable to reach the fire due to a fallen tree, but were eventually able to gain access. Large jets have been used to battle the blaze.
In a series of updates on its incident webpage, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue explained: “Initial reports from 1 caller of smoke from roof of derelict school building. Crews initially struggled for access due to a fallen tree.
“Crews relocated to Healds Road, gained access and identified the area on fire. Shortly after 8pm, crews in attendance requested to "Make Pumps 6" - 2 more fire engines and supporting appliances and officers were sent.”
At 10pm last night, the latest update read: “Building measures approx. 70m x 50m and is of 2 floors with approx. 50% of the 2nd floor involved. No casualties or injuries reported.
“Crews using a total of 4 large jets and 1 ground monitor at this time.
“Fire crews were supported by Yorkshire Ambulance Service, West Yorkshire Police, Kirklees Council, Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water, Northern Power and Northern Gas Networks.”
As of 1.30am “some supporting appliances and crews have been stood down” and four fire engines remained at the scene.
In an update at 5.30am today, the fire service adds: “We continue to have 4 crews in attendance taking in the sunrise and using 2 large jets on the property.”
The latest note from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue reads: “Fire now out; crews damping down with 1 hosereel. Incident de-escalated to 2 fire engines.”