AN early morning fire has broken out at a family-run business near Wellington forcing it to close

The Old Well Garden Centre, Restaurant and Cafe, is an independent business located near Wellington, from Junction 27 of the M5 just off the A38. 

Emergency services received a call at 1:27am today (November 1) due to reports of smoke and flames at the garden centre off the A38 near Uffculme.

Due to smoke, residents in the local area were advised to keep their windows and doors closed.

A statement released by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews have made steady progress through the night using hose reel jets, safety jets and an aerial ladder to control the fire and the incident is beginning to be scaled down as crews locate and dampen down hotspots.”

Opening as The Old Well Garden Centre in 1982, The Old Well Road House, as it was previously known when purchased by David and Christine Lamyman in the late 1970’s had seen better days.

The construction of the motorway saw its latest occupiers, Little Chef move to the newer services just down the road at Junction 27 of the M5 leaving behind its dilapidated former building.

The business has had much investment since its early days and is now run by Rob together with David and Christine and large dedicated team.

One of the owners, Robert Layman, has released a heartfelt message after this morning's devastating fire.

In a post made online via Facebook, Rob said: "I’m devastated to confirm that a significant fire broke out in the early hours of the morning here at The Old Well Garden Centre.

"Thankfully and most importantly no one was injured.

"The fire although vast was pretty much contained within the structure of our new entrance and shop extension.

"We are currently working with Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service and our support network to manage the site and make it safe before we can begin to fully assess the damage and determine the next steps.

"We will be closed tomorrow, Saturday 2nd November.

"On initial inspection the lions share of the wider site including our plants canopy, our outdoor display areas, the cafe, restaurant, gift shop and food hall have all been saved.

"It’s been a tough day, a huge shock and a massive blow to our family business.

"Please bear with us whilst we navigate the next steps.

"My parents and I cannot thank our local community, staff, suppliers, Old Well customers and friends enough for the messages received.

"We’ll update you all again in the next 24/48 hours.

"Rob."