"Water, water, everywhere, and not a drop to drink"

Hertfordshire Mercury, 31st October 1914

The Ware Fire Brigade received a call on the Monday evening at about 8.30 p.m. to The Bungalow, Baker’s End, Wareside.

The Brigade, under Captain John Page, was quickly on the scene but was unable to render assistance as there was no water at hand.

Superintendent Handley drove to the fire, and other police officers who hurried over were Constables Bignell, Field, Perry, Clark and Batchelor.  Every effort was made to save as many articles as possible, but nothing could be done to save the building which was completely gutted.  The house was unoccupied at the time.  Mr Ansell, the tenant, had gone out a little time before and the fire was observed by neighbours, the alarm being given by the vicar, Rev. T F Yule.

Police Sergeant Firth, who inspected the scene the following morning, reported that the building was burnt down to its foundations.  With regard to the lack of water, it was remarked that a farm close at hand was also without sufficient water to quench a fire.