Investigation into play-centre fire at Buntingford where animals died

Investigations are continuing into a devastating fire at Jungle Box in Buntingford.

Firefighters were called to the scene at Watermill Industrial Estate early yesterday (Wednesday 10th June) to find the building well alight.

The play centre and mini-zoo have been gutted by the flames and it's been confirmed that none of the animals there survived.

It's believed snakes, owls and meerkats are among the creatures that perished.

Chief Fire Officer Darren Cook has praised the work of his colleagues from Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue, "Crews worked hard to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to neighbouring units. I’d like to thank all crews for their professionalism and hard work and fire control colleagues for their calm and efficient handling of the calls."

Our reporter Callum McIntyre's been at the scene today, he says, "there's still smoke in the air, part of the roof was swallowed up by the blaze.

"The remains of what appears to be an animal enclosure appears badly burnt.

"Even cars parked nearby show signs of the fire's intensity.

"Ten fire crews attended the incident yesterday morning, nearby businesses have reopened today."

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• the jungle box