A QUICK-thinking lorry driver escaped serious injuries after disconnecting his HGV from its trailer just moments before it burst into flames.
The explosion, followed by loud bangs, woke residents in Burbage just before 11.45pm on Saturday, as the empty refrigerated trailer was engulfed in the fire on the A346 near the Burbage bypass.
Fire crews from Marlborough, Pewsey and a water carrier from Ramsbury fought to put the blaze out for nearly three hours.
“We awoke to a very large explosion just before midnight,” said Jon Horsley who owns Cadley Garage and watched the fire unfold from his house.
“I rushed up the garden to see large flames coming from the rear of an HGV around 100 yards from the house.
“We called the emergency services and went to check no one was hurt. As the fire raged at least four more explosions occurred shaking the house.
“The driver managed to uncouple the trailer and move the tractor unit away from the fire. We were concerned that if the wind changed, sparks would be blown towards our thatch roof.
“Within 20 minutes the fire brigade from Marlborough and Pewsey arrived and controlled the fire until it was out.”
Four breathing apparatus wearers used four hose reel jets to extinguish the fire which destroyed the trailer with the crews eventually leaving at 2.30am.
Watch manager Adie Cripps from Marlborough Fire Station was the officer in charge and believes the fire was caused by the vehicle’s brakes.
“The brakes seized,” he said. "I think the driver realised there was a problem and he stopped and disconnected the trailer and drove off.
"The trailer was well lit. It was engulfed with flames and we did what we could to put it out. Some of the diesel ignited causing a bang."
Police closed the Burbage bypass at 12.30am with traffic being diverted through the village and on Monday because of the significant damage to the road, which the trailer has burnt to, it remained partially closed with temporary traffic lights directing cars so the road could be resurfaced.
Mr Horsley added: “The remains of the trailer was removed around midday on Sunday, the driver had to stay in his cab all night until the recovery.”
The trailer on fire in Burbage. Picture: Jon Horsley of Cadley Garage
The aftermath of the trailer fire in Burbage. Picture: Jon Horsley of Cadley Garage
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