Honiton hardware store RKL Tools is to trade as normal following a fire that devastated its warehouse.
The business, which has been part of Honiton High Street for many years, also has shops in Axminster and Bridport as well as a warehouse in Bridport.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said the warehouse was reported to be on fire at 4.21am today (July 6).
A spokesman said: “Initially crews from the town responded to this incident but they quickly requested support.”
The service said a total of 15 fire engines and approximately 75 firefighters tackled the blaze.
Area Manager Seth Why issued this statement from the scene of the blaze: “Firefighters are working hard to reduce the fire spread and making good progress.
“We are working with on-site representatives and colleagues from Dorset Police to manage the site and surrounding roads. The large smoke plume in the area has subsided but we still advise local residents to keep windows and doors closed.”
Assistance was provided by crews from neighbouring Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
Thanking those for their messages of support, RKL Tools and Hardware issued a statement on social media.
The statement said: “Sadly, in the early hours of this morning there was a fire at our warehouse on the Dreadnought Trading Estate.
“We can’t thank the fire crews enough. At this time we are unaware of what caused the fire. We’ve had a lot of concerned customers offering condolences and offering support, which is hugely appreciated.
“The main thing, of course, is that no one was hurt and while this will cause disruption to deliveries we will continue to operate from our shops in a normal fashion.”
