Police investigation underway after Preston and South Ribble fire crews tackle large blaze at city garage

Crews from Preston, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge, Leyland, Fulwood, Longridge and Chorley were mobilised after reports of a fire at a garage in Skeffington Road at 10.20pm last night (February 16).

Seven fire engines attended after a fire broke out at two lock ups containing a number of vehicles.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) said an investigation into the cause has been completed, but said it could not comment on its findings at this stage.

It said the incident has been reported to Lancashire Police and the force has been asked to help with its investigation.

The Post has approached Lancashire Police for comment, but has yet to receive a response.

The fire service said that no injuries have been reported.

There are a number of auto businesses located at the Skeffington Road site, but the identity of the business affected has not been disclosed by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) at this stage.

But LFRS said the business affected is located inside a single storey commercial garage unit measuring around 60m by 40m.

At its peak, more than a dozen firefighters battled the blaze.

Their efforts were still continuing 11 hours later, with one fire engine still damping down the building at 9am this morning (February 17).

Fire offices remained on site until 11.35am whilst the cause of the blaze was investigated.

At 1am this morning, an LFRS spokesman said: "Firefighters from Preston, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge, Leyland, Fulwood, Longridge and Chorley were called to reports of a fire at a commercial premise on Skeffington Road, Preston.

"Firefighters are currently working to bring the fire under control using two main jets, an aerial ladder platform and a ventilation unit.

"The incident has now been reduced to four fire engines at the scene.

"Firefighters are currently still in attendance."