On Saturday morning (December 9), a significant house fire erupted on St Thomas Street in Wells, prompting a substantial response from the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

The fire service quickly mobilised to tackle the blaze, with crews from Wells, Shepton Mallet, and Street rushing to the scene.

The operation to control the fire was extensive, involving three fire appliances, two sets of breathing apparatus, and two hose reel jets. The severity of the fire also led to disruptions in local transport, with First West of England announcing bus route diversions via social media.

The service informed passengers: "Road closure. St Thomas St, Wells due to house fire. Service will be diverting from wells using the 376 route on Bristol Hill turning at Green Ore and resuming route at Burnt Wood crossroads in both directions."

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire control received a call to smoke issuing from a property on St Thomas Street in Wells. Control mobilised 3 fire appliances from Wells, Shepton Mallet and Street along with a supporting officer.

"Once on scene, crews confirmed smoke and flames issuing from the property. Crews were at work with two breathing apparatus, 1 CO2 extinguisher and one hose reel jet to identify and establish what is on fire."

The fire was discovered to involve an internal consumer unit located within a shared corridor. Fortunately, the fire was confined to the consumer unit, with no further spread. "Crews used four breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet, one safety jet, and 1 CO2 extinguisher. Crews confirmed this to be accidental ignition," added the fire service.

The National Grid was also in attendance, working to isolate and secure the area.

All flats within the property were ventilated to ensure the safety of residents.