Huge fire at bread factory now out
Dave FishwickA huge blaze at a bread factory has been fully extinguished, its owners have confirmed.
Monday's fire at the Warburtons site in Burnley was filmed by Dave Fishwick, founder of the Burnley Savings and Loans credit union who inspired the Bank of Dave films, as he flew nearby in his helicopter.
Warburtons said the fire was contained to one side of the factory and an investigation into its cause was under way. The extent of the fire damage will be assessed once the site is safe.
The firm, which produces "hot plate" products at the factory, said production there had been suspended. A spokesperson said it was looking at "upweighting production at our other 11 bakeries to minimise impact on supply".
Dave FishwickWarburtons is the UK's largest family-owned bakery firm.
It was founded in 1876 in Bolton.
Self-made millionaire Fishwick, from Burnley, made his fortune from selling vans before starting Burnley Savings and Loans in 2011 to offer local people affordable credit.
The 55-year-old narrated what he could see from the cockpit of his helicopter.
He said: "I'm flying over Burnley and there's a huge fire down there...
"I hope everybody is OK. It's unbelievable how big the fire is.
"I better call the fire brigade now and just make sure they know about it.
"The big factory roof looks like it is going up. It looks like it is Warburtons."
Twelve fire crews were at the scene at the height of the fire.
The blaze sent a plume of smoke hundreds of feet into the air.
Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
