Four calves die in fire

Firefighters from the Balclutha, Milton and Kaitangata Volunteer Fire Brigades douse a shed fire at Benhar, north of Balclutha, yesterday morning.

Balclutha Volunteer Fire Brigade Deputy Chief Fire Officer Terry Michie said four calves died in the 7.15am fire.

It was unclear what caused the fire, but he suspected it may have been an electrical fault.

The shed, on a private property at the end of Benhar Rd, was being used for calf rearing, and while a neighbour evacuated several calves, four died in the fire.

Mr Michie was unsure how many calves were saved. Clutha Vets was called to treat some for burns.

Five appliances were sent from the Balclutha, Milton and Kaitangata brigades.

Police also attended.

Chief Fire Officer Graeme Ferguson, of Balclutha, said it took about two hours to extinguish the fire.

The shed was still standing, and the extent of the damage was, as yet, unclear, he said.

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