Firefighters called to blaze at Beckton superstore

The fire was caused by a backup power generator overheating (credit: London Fire Brigade)

Around 40 firefighters were called to a blaze at a Beckton supermarket.

London Fire Brigade were made aware of the fire at the Asda superstore in Tollgate Road, at 9.37pm last night.

A stack of pallets outside the building were destroyed by fire and a small part of the roof at first floor level was also damaged by the blaze.

There were no reports of any injuries.

Six fire engines and crews from East Ham, Plaistow, Barking, Dagenham and Ilford fire stations attended the scene.

The fire was under control by 12.15am.

It’s believed the fire was caused by a backup power generator overheating and setting alight nearby cardboard boxes and pallets.

Leading Firefighter, Nick Matthews, who was at the scene said: “Crews were initially called to reports of a bin alight and as we approached we saw an orange glow coming from behind a brick wall.

“Upon investigation, we found that it was actually a stack of pallets and cardboard boxes that were alight.

“They had been stored outside and placed too close to a generator, which overheated and ignited the pallets and boxes.

“Crews worked incredibly hard to bring the fire under control and prevent further damage.”

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