A large fire broke out at a derelict three-storey building in Frome, Somerset, on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a major emergency response and warnings to local residents.

Emergency services were called to the site on Kingsway at around 3pm on July 1. The building, located at the Saxonvale site next to an M&S store, has been empty for decades and is described as a “heritage asset” — one of the few remaining old warehouses in the town.

Eight fire engines, two water carriers, and two aerial ladder platforms were deployed to tackle the intense blaze. Firefighters from stations across the region, including Frome, Castle Cary, Street, Shepton Mallet, and Wells, used multiple jets to battle the flames.

Local architect Jonny Buckland, who was near the scene, called the incident “heartbreaking” for the community. “It’s a heritage asset – it’s one of the few warehouses left in the town,” he said.

Due to the unstable structure of the burning building, authorities set up a cordon in the area. The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service issued a public warning for residents to keep doors and windows closed to avoid smoke inhalation.

As of the latest updates, no casualties have been reported. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

This incident has drawn concern from locals, as the building held historical significance in the town’s industrial heritage.