A discarded cigarette is being blamed for the intense blaze that destroyed a York store.
North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service today (November 7) revealed the outcome of their investigation into the fire on October 13.
The probe, conducted alongside North Yorkshire Police, said the cause was not considered suspicious.
It started in the rear loading area and the high winds fanned the flames into the store itself.
Fire service – full statement
The fire appears to have started by means of discarded smoking materials within the rear loading area of the store.
The severe fire was fanned by high winds which spread rapidly through this area and into the adjacent B&M building causing extensive damage.
The surrounding premises were protected from the excessive heat and spread of fire by the attending fire crews.
All members of the public and staff from B&M (who were inside the premises) made their way to safety on discovery of the fire and no injuries were reported.
At its peak, the fire service had 10 pumps, two aerial ladder platforms and two water bowsers deployed at the blaze.
People in surrounding areas were told to keep their windows shut because of the smoke caused by the fire.
This is no surprise to any of us,smoking caused the fire is the first thing i thought of.Every single time I’ve called into this store a staff member was stood outside with a fag in hand,not a great look for the company!..well it won’t take much working out who the smokers on shift were that day,we all know and have them wherever you work!