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Major fire 'disrupts' sun-care firm's operations

Alex PopeBedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Two firefighters, in full fire gear, stand outside a burnt out building. Hoses are spraying water on to the roof of the building, which is releasing thick, dark smoke. A tree stands in front of the building. Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service praised fire crews for "their dedication and professionalism"

A major blaze that shut the M25 for two hours has disrupted a sun-care company's operations, it has said.

Firefighters were called to Malibu Sun, at Ventura Park, Old Parkbury Lane, Colney Street, in St Albans, at 09:21 BST on Tuesday.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue said it spent more than 48 hours bringing it under control and nearby buildings on the industrial estate were evacuated due to the risk of an explosion.

The family-run firm, which makes sun protection and skincare products and was founded in 1999, said there would be "some disruption to the business while we assess the situation".

A row of Malibu SPF 15 sun-tan lotion sprays on a shelf. They have an orange lid and a white body, with branding.
The family-run firm has been producing sun protection products since 1999

In a social media post, Malibu Sun said: "Thankfully everyone is accounted for and those affected are receiving the appropriate care and support".

It added that it had "understandably been a difficult and upsetting time for our team", but its trade business "remains as normal".

An update on the Malibu Sun website said it was currently unable to take or process orders, but its site would be up and running again "as soon as possible", and it thanked people for their "patience, kindness and support".

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Watch: Risk of explosion at sun-care firm fire closed M25

On Tuesday, the M25 was closed between junctions 22 and 21A due to the risk of a "secondary explosion, along with smoke and debris affecting the carriageway," said National Highways.

Tring Fire Station A burnt down building, with an aerial ladder appliance outside, a tree to the right and a building behind it. Smoke is rising in the air. Tring Fire Station
Malibu Sun says its staff are being supported after fire engulfed its premises close to the M25 on Tuesday

Mark Barber, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service's deputy chief fire officer, said it was a "challenging incident" and its crews worked "tirelessly" over to days to bring it under control and to put out the remaining pockets of fire.

"We are also grateful to local residents, the wider public and businesses affected by this incident for their patience, support and understanding.

"The fire has now been extinguished, but crews remain in attendance as some small areas of debris continue to smoulder," he said.

Inspections will continue but he confirmed a fire investigation had begun, to establish the cause.

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