Fire crews tackle blaze at derelict building in Watchet
Crews believe the fire was started deliberately
Firefighters from various stations rushed to the scene of a fire at the Old Paper Mill in Watchet last night (2nd June 2026).
After receiving multiple reports, Bridgwater Fire Control mobilised crews from Williton and Minehead to respond to the blaze around 6.47pm.
Upon arrival, the firefighters confirmed the building, measuring roughly 30 meters by 5 meters, was already well alight.
Additional support, including a third appliance from Minehead and an aerial ladder platform from Bridgwater, joined the operation.
As the situation escalated, a fourth appliance from Nether Stowey was called to assist.
Firefighters battled the blaze using two main jets and advised residents near Brendon Road and Watchet to keep their windows and doors closed due to thick smoke.
During the response, the roof of the building collapsed, with approximately 90% affected by 8.00pm.
Progress was evident by 8.30pm, and by 10.59pm, the fire had been extinguished, leaving firefighters to damp down remaining hotspots.
Crews believe the fire was started deliberately, and police attended the scene from 8.33pm.