Second blaze at north Shropshire fire tragedy care home

The 17-year-old from Walsall, who has not been named, died in a fire at Bagley Marsh registered children's home on Saturday. Crews were called at about 11.30pm but nothing could be done to save the teenager.

She was confirmed dead at the scene about an hour later.

But fire crews from Ellesmere and Baschurch also attended a fire at the home in the quite rural village on August 31.

Fire logs show that the blaze broke out in a first floor bedroom shortly before 9.30pm and crews were at the scene until 10.30pm.

Bosses at Bryn Melyn Care, which owns the home, have said a full internal review is underway.

No one was available to comment further today.

Steve Purslow, fire investigator for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "I can confirm that we have been to a fire at that property previously, I can't pass any comment on a link between the two incidents because I am not aware of any."

Mr Purslow said fire fighters have now finished their investigation into Saturday's blaze and it is now in the hands of West Mercia Police.

The fire was confined to a bedroom and two other adults who were in the property at the time were not hurt.

The children's home houses up to two young people at a time with educational or behavioural difficulties who are in the care of Walsall Council Coalition.

The latest Ofsted inspection in April graded the home as 'outstanding' at keeping young children safe.

Councillor Derek Jones, of Hordley Parish Council, used to farm the land near the site and said he was very shocked by the news.

He said it had always been a quiet place that had not caused any problems.

He said: "It has been a care home for about 12 years and has always been very private. Some people didn't even know it is a home, it is that quiet and well run.

"When I worked nearby I would see them come out and walk round the garden for about 10 minutes and then go back in."