A TIMBER mill destroyed by fire two years ago is set to rise from the ashes and re-open by the end of the year.

Batsford Saw Mills on the Longleat estate was destroyed in October 2000. More than 60 firefighters fought their way through poisonous smoke in a battle to put out the blaze.

The fire, which sent toxic fumes of chrome arsenic and creosote billowing into the air above Longleat Forest, caused more than £150,000-worth of damage, destroying a treatment tank warehouse.

It took six hours to extinguish the flames and nine firefighters were taken to hospital for precautionary check-ups. All were released within hours.

Managing director Bob Clark said: "The fire was caused by an electrical fault.

"I was travelling from our other department at the time and couldn't believe it when I heard what was happening at Longleat.

"It was shocking to see the extent of the damage, which meant that the business had to close, but we were always planning for a comeback."

Ten people lost their jobs when the mill was destroyed but Mr Clark is now rebuilding the team and is hoping to employ more staff in the New Year.

A new treatment vessel has been lowered into place by a 250 tonne crane.

Work on a new building could only begin after the 57ft tank was installed.

Mr Clark said: "There has been a two-year delay because of concerns over ground contamination from the old creosote plant. Now we are rising from the ashes.

"Our aim is to have ready for immediate dispatch our extensive range of timbers for both private and public customers."

Batsford provide timber to anyone from DIY enthusiasts to landscape designers, builders and fencing contractors.

The company is looking to extend its range in the new year.

Mr Clark said: "We produce wood for garden sheds, log cabins and garden furniture and we want to continue to expand.

"If everything goes to plan we should be back up to speed in the New Year and it will be a tremendous relief to be back."

The company also owns another mill in Moreton-in-Marsh.