What could have developed into a serious fire at Castlethorpe on Monday evening was prevented by villagers who, forming a human chain, passed bucket after bucket of water to quell flames in the roof of a brick-built and tiled-roof barn in New Road. A number of valuable rabbits were rescued as also were several head of poultry.

The barn is the property of Mr. Jack Brown, a well-known fancier, and stands by the side of the railway line. He was at work in Wolverton Railway Works when the fire was discovered at about 8.30 p.m. Mr. H. Gray was the first to notice the flames coming from the roof of the building, which was at one time a blacksmith’s shop. Mrs. Brown was informed of the fire and brigades were summoned from Newport Pagnell and Wolverton. Until their arrival many villagers, led by Mr. Gerald Hall, Mr. George Wootton, and Mr. Harry Gray, maintained, a good supply of water by the bucket system, water being obtained from a pump. By the time the first brigade arrived – Newport Pagnell - the fire was under control. Fortunately the flames were confined to the roof of the building. Other buildings were in the vicinity and a serious fire might have developed but for the prompt actions and efficient work of the villagers.

The fire was only a short distance from the fire in the village a month ago, although on the opposite side of the railway line. Local residence advance the opinion that the fire started from a spark from the railway engine, although some people dismiss this probability. At the time the building was locked up and no one was seen about.