Fire service investigation finds blaze at Cherry Tree Farm, Metfield, was caused by a furnace

The cause of a ‘large and complex’ blaze in Metfield has been revealed, after firefighters spent three days at the scene.

Suffolk Fire Service was called to the incident at Cherry Tree Farm, in Metfield, by several residents at about 1.45am on Friday.

Today, the fire service said an investigation had found the blaze, involving multiple barns and ‘significant hazards’, was an accidental fire caused by a furnace.

A spokesperson added: “Having maintained a presence at the scene over the weekend, a crew will reinspect today to ensure there is no risk of reignition.”

The fire involved a number of large barns, covering an area approximately 150 metres by 40 metres.

The barns contained large quantities of straw bales, farm machinery and a workshop housing several acetylene cylinders, which are hazardous under heat.

One 1,000-litre container of pine oil was found on site and was removed from the buildings.

At one point there were eight fire engines at the scene, with extra support from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.

The scene was initially divided into four operational sectors to manage the incident, led by senior officers from both services.

A fire break was created in the standing crop at the back of the barns to prevent further spread.