A FIRE investigation is underway after a large blaze destroyed multiple homes in Winsford yesterday, Wednesday, with the community now rallying to source donations and emergency accomodation for those affected.

Yesterday afternoon, March 22, six fire engines rushed to a fire involving properties on Abbotts Way.

Four people were injured as a result of the incident, but their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Fire crews brought the flames under control but remained at the scene overnight.

This morning, March 23, a spokesperson for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The number of fire engines at the scene has been reduced further to one.

AS IT HAPPENED: Fire investigation to take place after emergency services deal with flat blaze

“Crews continue to damp down the affected property.

“A cordon and road closures in the immediate vicinity of Abbots Way remain in place for the time being.

“An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway.”

Weaver Vale Housing Trust said it was working with affected tenants and residents to find them alternative accommodation and ‘offer support during this distressing time’.

A statement reads: “We would like to say thank you to the Winsford community who were truly amazing in pulling together and offering each other support and care following yesterday’s fire incident on Abbotts Way.

“Our Neighbourhood and Property Teams were at the scene within minutes of the incident and stayed all afternoon and evening supporting tenants and residents.

“We are continuing to work with Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Winsford Police and would like to extend our thanks to them for their swift action.

“We would also like to extend our thanks to the New Images Youth and Community Centre, who immediately opened up as a shelter and where our colleagues worked until late last night.”

A Chester West and Chester Council spokesperson added: “The council offers emergency accommodation to households made homeless in an emergency such as this.

“Often this is only for a short time as those affected can usually return to their property, however if it is required for a longer period, this would be arranged.

“If there is a landlord involved, either a housing association or private landlord, they will also provide advice and support to their tenants.”

Winsford Salt of the Earth took to social media to confirm Winsford’s Brunner Guildhall will be available for the storage of donations for victims of the fire.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has also been contacted to request a unit at Winsford Cross Shopping Centre to store further donations.

As well as physical donations, there are a number of GoFundMe pages which have been set up to raise cash donations for people who have lost their homes.

These can be found by searching on various social media sites, like Facebook, and online.

Countless residents have taken to social media to share their support for those affected, as well as offering donations and words of support.