SIX fire crews were called to a blaze at the Longhope Business Park on Tuesday evening (May 31).

The fire broke out in a unit on the park adjacent to the A4136 Gloucester to Monmouth Road on the site of the former Richard Read Transport operation.

The fire service was alerted at around 9.18pm and crews were sent from Cinderford, Newent, Gloucester North, Gloucester South and Cheltenham.

The fire was brought under control and there were no injuries.

The A4136 between Huntley and Mitcheldean was closed for several hours and diversions put in place.

Local police officers were assisted by Gloucestershire Police’s specialist operations unit including police dogs Stella and Quest.

People living nearby were told to keep their windows closed because of drifting smoke.

The fire started in the unit next to the one occupied by the Dezac Group which produces and distributes beauty products such as Salon Essentials and Rio.

Dezac chief executive Des Mills said they were grateful for the rapid response of the emergency services.

He said: “The fire started in an adjacent unit to those occupied by the Dezac Group and while substantially contained it did spread into our production and office areas. 

“Although the fire itself did not spread into our warehouse the full impact on it is not known at this time. 

“Our head office is located in Cheltenham and is not affected.

“Once we have access to the building a fuller assessment of the impact of the fire will be made.  

“We remain hopeful that a quick recovery and resumption of business will be possible.”