A BUSINESS located on the A38, near Wellington, was dealt a huge blow last week after a "significant fire" broke out forcing it to close.

The Old Well Garden Centre, located near Wellington, just off the A38, was engulfed in flames in the early hours of the morning on November 1. 

One of the owners, Robert Lamyman, said the fire was contained within the new entrance to the garden centre.

He added that the majority of the wider site, including plants, outdoor display areas, the café, restaurant and gift shop, were all saved by firefighters.

Fire breaks out and closes family business near Wellington: Read More.

Robert Lamyman, better known as Rob, provided a statement after the fire on November 1 and has also provided a further update on the aftermath of the fire.

Speaking at the weekend, Rob said: "The November 1 fire and the stark reality of the aftermath here at The Old Well continues to be devastating for my family and our dedicated team of staff and suppliers.

"The swift response and heroic actions by multiple Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue personnel throughout the night of the fire and the following day means a considerable area of our much loved Garden Centre has been saved as mentioned in my initial update yesterday.

"We cannot thank our local Fire Services enough for this.

"To our community - the heartfelt messages, kind comments, words of unwaivering support, and countless offers to help from everyone around us have been seen - and we appreciate them all more than you’ll ever know.

"The Old Well will get through this and rebuild. We just need to be safe, and certain, and work forward from there.

"Today and over the coming 48 hours our focus is on site safety, loss and damages, core equipment replacements, and drawing up an effective plan.

"Sadly it’s not a simple case of cordoning off one area and opening up another, and I hope everyone will understand that it’s impossible for us to re-open in any way until we know it is completely safe to do so.

"We will therefore be closed on Sunday 3 and Monday November 4.

"I’m hopeful to share a more positive update when we get to Monday close of play but please continue to bear with us.

"Thank you everyone, Rob."