A farmer who watched his £40,000 barn burn to the ground today said he did not blame the child who started it.
Ken Beckwith spoke as he surveyed the remains of the barn at Malyons Farm in Malyons Lane, Hullbridge.
No blame attached - Ken Beckwith examines the wreckage of his barn that was destroyed by fire Picture: KIRSTY DOWMAN
Mr Beckwith, whose family has run the farm for more than 50 years, said he was just grateful the fire had not spread to nearby buildings, including his home and that of his son Martyn.
He said: "My grandson Ryan had been playing with a boy round by the barn when the youngster got out some matches and lit one. He accidentally dropped it into the hay.
"Ryan ran straight to his house to tell his mum what had happened."
Fire crews had to let the fire burn itself out because of the amount of hay and straw smouldering. The blaze is a further blow to the family.
Mr Beckwith's other grandson, James, was hit by a car on Southend seafront when he was two, leaving him paralysed.
Published Tuesday, May 27, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article