David Suchet celebrates rescue service's rises from ashes after Stafford fireworks factory blaze
A river and canal rescue base that was destroyed in a fireworks warehouse blaze that claimed two lives has re-opened 'like a Phoenix from the flames' almost two years after the tragedy.
Poirot actor David Suchet performed the launch ceremony at the River Canal Rescue's new headquarters in Baswich, Stafford.
Its former premises was wiped out when the neighbouring fireworks firm SP Plastics blew up in October 2014. Around 50 firefighters tackled the inferno which sent hundreds of rockets exploding into the sky.
Despite the major setback, the inland waterways emergency service continued to operate. At yesterday's re-launch, company boss Stephanie Horton, described the blaze as 'one of the most devastating days in our history.'
The business, which has a 29-strong workforce, survived with the help of neighbouring firms and customers, she said.
Paying tribute to the service, Mr Suchet, a keen canal boater, said it was 'one of the last of its kind.' The emergency centre acts as an AA-style service for inland boat users and managed not to miss a single call-out in the aftermath of the blaze.
The actor said: "I have used the RCR more for preventative measures over the years but I know how well they aid boaters in a crisis.
"I remember sailing from London to Stratford Upon Avon in 1974 and on that journey I broke down no less than four times. How I could have used this service then.
"I am truly delighted for the RCR and today is a special day for them, it is like the Phoenix from the flames. I wish the whole company the best of luck going forward."
Last year River Canal Rescue won the Express & Star's Business Awards customer service trophy, celebrating its triumph over adversity. Established in 2001, the RCR attended more than 4,000 call outs in 2014 peaking at an average of 140 a week during the summer.
Managing director Ms Horton said: "When we started out we had big ideas, very little financial support and a belief we could make a difference.
"The fire was one of the most devastating days in our history, we have faced a lot of challenges over the years but this was one of the most difficult.
"It has been a long journey with plenty of bumps along the way but we are here. Like a Phoenix from the flames we have risen again and we couldn't have done it without the support of our business neighbours and customers."
The company lost everything in the fire which killed 41-year-old Simon Hillier, of Mountside Street, Hednesford, who was working at the warehouse, and father-of-three, Stewart Gordon Staples, 57, from Cannock, who was a customer. Four people were injured.
In October last year a file on the incident was handed to the Crown Prosecution Service which is still considering the evidence.
Staffordshire Police, who had been investigating, said it had been a challenging and lengthy inquiry due to the total destruction of the premises and the number of witnesses and experts consulted as part of the investigation.
