By Ryan Sands
FIREFIGHTERS from the Newcastle-based Large Animal Rescue Team saved 300 sheep and 30 calves from a blaze outside Banbridge last week.
On Thursday night, members of the specialist four-strong NIFRS (Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service) team were tasked to assist at a large fire in a hayshed on the Cascum Road and deployed measures to bring the animals being housed there to safety.
“Firefighters were called to reports of a well-developed hay fire in a shed with approximately 300 sheep and 30 calves,” an NIFRS statement released on Friday said.
“The NIFRS Large Animal Rescue Team led all animals to safety upon arrival.
“At the height of the incident, over 40 firefighters and personnel were involved in the operational response with fire appliances from Banbridge, Dromore, Lurgan, Portadown, Ballynahinch, Rathfriland, Newtownhamilton, Newry, Cadogan, Keady, Whitla, Lisburn and Dungannon Fire Stations, including a water tanker from Warrenpoint Fire Station and a command support unit from Lisburn Fire Station.
“The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental ignition, and the incident was dealt with by 11.50am on Friday 3 April 2026.”
NIFRS confirmed earlier that a telehandler had been used to remove hay from the shed to help extinguish the blaze.
Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart posted: “I’m very relieved to hear that hundreds of sheep have been rescued following the hay shed fire in Banbridge.
“Not all superheroes wear capes – a huge thank you to our firefighters for their swift response and continued efforts.
“We owe a great debt to our emergency services at times of crisis.”
Her party colleague, Diane Dodds, also voiced her relief.
“Well done to all the firefighters for their swift response, as always, and their continued efforts – thinking of the family at this time,” the Upper Bann MLA wrote.
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