11 Nov 2011
A ham smoker was the cause of a fire that destroyed a Norwich food factory, the fire service has revealed.
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said it is now closing the book on its investigation into the incident at Broadland Hams on the Sweet Briar Industrial Estate, which led to one person being treated for breathing in smoke.
Staff had to be evacuated and nearby roads were shut as 50 firefighters began tackling the blaze on Wednesday afternoon.
Their efforts carried on long into the night and crews remained at the scene on Thursday to ensure the fire did not flare up again.
Richard Herrell, group manager from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, explained that although the building was at risk of collapse the surrounding area is now contained and poses no risk to the public.
As a result the roads around the estate that were closed have now reopened.
Copyright Press Association 2011