Tuesday 30 May 2023

FIRE SERVICE personnel have been remembering a major incident which took place in Beverley 20 years ago this month. A massive fire at the Bartoline factory on the Swinemoor industrial estate broke out around 9.30 in the morning and, at its height, black smoke plumes billowed more than 2,000 feet into the air and could be seen 20 miles away.

175 fire fighters and 28 fire engines tackled the blaze amid explosions from cans of oil and concerns that it would spread to adjacent properties. It took until 4pm to bring things under control and thankfully, there were no casualties. 

Following the fire, Bartoline took over a unit owned by East Yorkshire Council in Annie Read Road, allowing production of solvents, adhesives and wood treatment products to continue, with the Swinemoor factory eventually rebuilt and reopened in 2005. 

BISHOP BURTON College’s head gardener will be hosting a special workshop next week, open to the public as part of National Gardening Week. It takes place in the college’s walled garden on Wednesday June 7 from 6-7pm and is a chance to learn more about taking cuttings, plant propagation and how to plant up a colourful hanging basket. Places are free but must be pre-booked via the college’s website.

EASY YORKSHIRE Family History Society is holding a Book Fair on Sunday at the Carnegie Heritage Centre on Anlaby Road in Hull. It runs from 10 am – 3 pm. For further information contact Judy Bangs on 01482 871280.