Fire at Old Hunstanton Beach caused by ‘thoughtless individuals’ who placed hot barbecues in bin

A business owner has issued a warning after irresponsible beach-goers caused a fire by placing hot barbecues in a bin.

Barbecues are not permitted on Old Hunstanton’s beach, with information boards making that clear.

However, on Saturday evening, fire crews rushed to the area next to the Old Town Beach Cafe after a blaze started in a litter trailer.

One appliance was sent to Sea Lane from Hunstanton’s station, with firefighters using hose reel jets to extinguish the flames.

The incident could have been even worse had it not been for the quick thinking of staff at the cafe.

“My daughter lives at the cafe and used our fire extinguisher to initially control the fire before the emergency services got there or it could have been significantly worse,” owner Serena Armstrong told the Lynn News.

Serena’s daughter Evie, along with her partner Jack, were the ones to originally tackle the fire.

A social media post from the team added: “We’re lucky to enjoy such a beautiful beach, and it’s up to all of us to keep it safe and clean.

“Unfortunately, tonight some thoughtless individuals ignored the rules and placed still-hot barbecues in the litter trailer - causing a fire.

“This kind of behaviour is incredibly dangerous and puts people, wildlife, and property at risk.

“Please, please think before you act. Respect the rules, protect our beach, and help keep everyone safe.”