FAST-ACTING firecrews prevented a potential inferno at a Woodbridge workshop.Five engines and a turntable ladder descended on the Meregrove furniture factory and quickly brought the blaze under control.

FAST-ACTING firecrews prevented a potential inferno at a Woodbridge workshop.

Five engines and a turntable ladder descended on the Meregrove furniture factory and quickly brought the blaze under control.

A firefighter at the scene said the rapid response of his colleagues prevented what could have turned into a serious fire.

Factory staff were evacuated and a Meregrove spokesman confirmed no-one had been hurt.

The alarm was raised just before 2.30pm yesterday. But firefighters arriving at the Deben Road factory found access to water was hindered by the nearby railway tracks.

Hoses were passed under the tracks and trains were slowed to make sure they did not hinder the operation to bring the blaze under control.

A fire brigade spokesman said the fire had taken hold in a small part of the building.

Firecrews were dispatched immediately and the call was swiftly raised for a greater presence.

But the spokesman said the rapid reaction meant the blaze was quickly brought under control.

He said parts of the roof were removed to prevent the flames taking hold.

The all clear was sounded just under two hours after the first call, although crews were left at the scene to ensure the blaze did not restart.

Crews from Ipswich and Woodbridge used four sets of breathing apparatus and two water jets in the operation.

An investigation has been launched into how the fire started.