Tamworth Fire & Rescue station commander Phil Cox told The Leader that the publican at The Albert alerted the brigade at 7am  that a fire had taken hold in the backyard of Tamworth Chainsaws and Mowers next door.

Commander Cox said that when the brigade arrived, flames were over the fence and he’d initially called in a second fire truck thinking it would be needed – but, as it transpired, it wasn’t.

“The flames were higher than the gate,” Commander Cox said.

The backyard of the mower premises was where chainsaws were tested by employees, and he said there was a “heap of sawdust” as well as pallets there.

“I’d say someone’s flicked a cigarette over the fence at The Albert and it smouldered all night (before igniting),” Commander Cox said.

“We got on top of it quick and knocked it out.

“I initially called for a second (truck) because I didn’t know what was behind the gate.”