Dear Editor,

How do you begin to say ‘You are amazing’ to the 50+ firefighters who worked tirelessly for approximately 22 hours on Wednesday through to Thursday. They put their lives at risk to contain a horrendous fire, with so many hidden dangers, which sadly destroyed two incredible local businesses, but prevented further devastation and losses.

As an employee of one of the businesses on Haigh, I arrived on the estate Thursday morning - having no idea what I would be confronted with, whether my place of work would be standing, and if so - whether we would be completely smoked out. As I walked into Cropper Row, I was utterly devastated to see the ravaged buildings, yet so relieved that by some miracle - we were unscathed, we didn’t even lose our electricity.

During Thursday, as containment continued, I saw the utter disbelief, shock and complete sadness and loss of those directly involved. Aqua-Heat is run by the dynamic duo Ian and Barry, the success of the business due to the their relationship with their customers and suppliers, so well loved and respected. Aqua-Heat was not just a Plumbing centre, it was a social club, a constant hive of activity and one of the best networking sites in Ross.

The Safety Shack, a small business to start, but with the blood, sweat and tears of the owner Brian, saw a business growing and thriving. A very well respected businessman and neighbour. Haigh occupants, share more than an industrial estate - we see each other day in, day out - we all want the other to succeed, and this loss, for all of us, is devastating.

I made a comment today, that someone was watching over us, but in fact, 50+ incredibly brave firefighters, watched over us. They ensured damage limitation, and protection of life. So how do you say you are all wonderful?

From the occupants of Haigh Industrial Estate, we salute and applaud you, we thank you for watching over us, and for the sensitivity shown to Ian, Barry and Brian, who saw their lives turned upside down.

I was never in any doubt before this incident, that our frontline emergency services are invaluable, brave and selfless - but I do lay down a challenge to our ‘Safe behind their desks, pen pushing beaurocrats’ - either roll up your sleeves and risk your lives, or ‘Shut up and pay up!’

Thank you. Yours humbly,

Sara

Ross-on-Wye