This new footage shows the devastating aftermath of an allotment fire that killed 250 pigeons.
The blaze at Fulwell Mill Allotments, off Viewforth Terrace in Sunderland, took several hours for firefighters to tackle, with all the sheds and pigeon crees completely destroyed.
Seven crews arrived at around 11.20pm on Sunday and left just before 9am on Monday
An investigation was carried out by Northumbria Police and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) and they do not believe it was malicious.
TWFRS Crew manager Andy Robinson said: “As you can see the damage was extensive. Sheds and pigeon crees were 100% severely damaged by the fire and large quantities of commercial, industrial and domestic waste were also destroyed.
“Sadly hundreds of pigeons also perished in the blaze.
“It is often very, very difficult for firefighters to tackle fires on allotment sites due to access restrictions, water supply and sometimes the sheer amount of fuel that’s present.
“Fires on allotment sites can easily get out of control, putting lives in real danger.
“They affect not only the allotment holders but neighbouring residents and, of course, the environment.
“During lockdown allotments are a lifeline to many people. For some, providing the only link to the wider community.”
The fire comes after crews attended a blaze at an allotment in Gateshead.
Nine appliances tackled the fire off Elysium Lane in Teams Valley on May 30.
