Monday/Tuesday, November 26/27, 2007
Fire at the Farm.
After mid-night the large straw shed was burned down.The alarm came from neighbours from higher overlooking the monastery and from neighbours on lower ground. The blaze could be seen from far. The Abbot, Prior and Br. Aidan, Farm Manager, were on the scene after 11.00.PM.
The livestock, machinery and steading were not damaged. Three fire engines came quickly but the fire was in full blaze before the first alarms.
There has been a spate of arson and vandalism in the area recently. Since the harvest the large shed has been full of straw bales for the winter feeding and bedding in the cattle courts.
Fortunately there was no wind. So although the heat was intense the main buildings were untouched, and the forestry adjoining was safe.
At first full light, about eight o’clock, I took the accompanying pictures.
By evening the fire was still blazing at ground level The fire tender and the crew were still keeping a watchful eye on the site.
It is very hard for Br. Aidan facing another hard winter.
