People wrapped in bedclothes flee late-night fire at vinery
Tuesday 25th November 2008, 2:29PM GMT.
Merton Vinery, Pointes Lane. (31752602)
PEOPLE wrapped in bedding dashed to safety when fire struck at a Pointes Lane vinery late on Saturday night, it has been revealed.
A St Andrew’s resident said she had seen five people run out of a greenhouse with bedding and duvets wrapped around them.
‘They sneaked out and tried not to be seen,’ she said. The Environment Department is expected to confirm today whether an inquiry has been launched into foreign staff sleeping at Merton Vinery.
There have been reports that they were sleeping in a greenhouse. Environment yesterday confirmed that it was investigating allegations that sheds at a vinery were being used for non-horticultural purposes.
Following Saturday’s fire in a packing shed at the vinery, the Guernsey Press received reports that it had been let and was being used for storage by Sails Gift Shop.
Merton Vinery owner Bruce Tostevin declined to comment on the allegations.
- To read Guernsey Press stories in full click here for subscription details. Individual editions are now available online.
Island Life
All about Guernsey
Ambassador of the Year 2011
History & Heritage
Visitor Information
Guernsey's government
Campaigns
Voice For Victims
Voice for Victims is a campaign aimed at promoting the rights of those affected by child sexual abuse.
I wouldent be surprised to hear that foreign people are living in our vinerys thay come over here to make money not spend it all on rediculas rents . i might have to end up sleeping in a vinery at the rate its going at the moment x
Report abuse
Stop working – I think you will find the states will bend over backwards to help you & house you then!!
If however you continue to work like myself then you will be forgotten about & any assistance you need will be refused!!
Have kids & stop working is the way forward in the States eyes…
Report abuse
Well said W H Bonney…Unemployed + kids = States Housing,peppercorn rent, Sky TV..Friday & Saturday night on the Town. Workers = Income Tax, States Insurance, mortgage or high rental private accomodation… in the case of immigrant workers a greenhouse?
Report abuse
HERE HERE Well done W H Bonney you have hit the nail on the head..It does NOT pay to work these days in an ISLAND such as Guernsey & Jersey I must add..and you will have all the luxuries you will need hence NOT living in Greenhouses for one..
Report abuse