20 Jul 2012
An Essex hut frequented by a local scout group has been devastated by a blaze that ripped through the structure early last Saturday morning.
Fire services arrived at the wooden Horace Norman hut in Grays following sightings of smoke coming from the site, according to the Thurrock Gazette.
The fire was tackled for two hours by firefighters but they were unable to stop various pictures, awards, historic flags, tables and chairs from being destroyed.
An investigation into the fire has already started, but acting scout group leader Bill Osbourne ruled out arson as the cause for the moment.
The fire also devastated a trailer parked next to the hut, and there are reports that an electrical fault may have been the cause.
According to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, a “suitable and sufficient” fire risk assessment has to be carried out on all commercial buildings in England and Wales.
If this assessment is found to have been inadequately conducted then the Responsible Person may be given an unlimited fine or sentenced for up to two years in prison.
Copyright Press Association 2012