AN investigation into a suspected arson attack has been launched after a blaze at a printer ink store in Crewe.

Firefighters and police received reports of a fire at Cartridge World, on Nantwich Road, in the early hours of yesterday morning, Wednesday, August 28.

Two fire engines from Crewe were first on the scene, but quickly called for two more engines – one from Nantwich and one from Sandbach – after reports that people were trapped inside the flats above.

The fire, which started in a bin compound behind the store, broke out at 3.03am, and spread to the ground floor of the Cartridge World shop.

Six firefighters using breathing apparatus used three jets to extinguish the flames.

A large industrial fan was used to disperse the smoke and the building was searched.

Despite reports of people being trapped inside the flats, everyone was accounted for at the scene and the gas and electricity supply was isolated.


Adjacent properties on Nantwich Road were also entered as they were smoke logged.

A spokesman for Cartridge World said: “We can confirm that at 3am on August 28 a fire started outside the rear of the Cartridge World Crewe store on Nantwich Road and we are working with the police and fire service in their investigation.

“The fire spread to inside the store and damage has occurred to the toner room, storage area and the shop.

“The Cartridge World store was unoccupied at the time of the incident.

“As a consequence, the store is closed but further information on the supply of printer cartridges and any other printing needs can be obtained by calling the diverted landline number on 01270 255 588.”

Following the blaze, a spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “We are treating it as suspicious – it’s malicious ignition.”

There have been a number of small deliberate fires in Crewe over recent weeks, as reported in the Guardian last week, one of which was on Nantwich Road.

The incidents have involved rubbish, bins, vehicles and grass and most have been started behind buildings on wheelie bins.

Fires have also occurred in the Lunt Avenue and West Street areas of Crewe.

Anyone with information regarding Wednesday’s incident should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.