1 Feb - A Birmingham factory is ruined in a 'suspicious' fire

Monday, 1 Feb 2010

An asbestos-roofed factory in Birmingham has been almost completely destroyed in a "suspicious" fire.

Fire crews were called to Rea Street in Digbeth at 0825 GMT, where they found the 40m (131ft) by 25m (82ft) fabrics factory fully ablaze.

Surrounding streets have been closed and are not likely to reopen on Sunday, West Midlands Fire Service said.

Some 60 firefighters fought the blaze. The exact cause of the fire is not yet known.

Fire investigators are at the scene, but no one is believed to have been hurt.

Group Cdr Mick Birch said: "The fire has been brought under control.

"The building was secure when we arrived. To the best of my knowledge, no one has been injured."

The asbestos poses no risk to the public, but water run-off to the River Rae has been blocked, says the fire service.

Crews managed to save more than half of the building, but fire severely damaged stock and caused severe structural damage.

Some surrounding streets may be closed for two days.

Source: BBC News Feb 2010