RAF Fairford investigation launched after fire at US Air Force base in Gloucestershire

An inquiry has been launched into the blaze that erupted at an RAF base on Sunday morning. Several fire crews tackled the substantial inferno at a Gloucestershire airbase in the early hours as flames consumed a storage building at the RAF Fairford site. The fire is thought to have ignited at around 1am and has been described by Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue as 'accidental'. RAF Fairford has been utilised by the US Air Force since March, when Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer authorised its use for 'defensive' strikes. Its involvement in the Iran conflict has proved contentious, with a peaceful anti-war demonstration held there on Saturday in opposition, reports Gloucestershire Live . Approximately 200 people gathered for the protest at the base, marching to the end of its runway. Protesters carried signs bearing the slogans: "US out of British bases" and "Stop Trump's deadly wars". It is one of just two bases across Europe capable of accommodating all three of America's long-range bombers. The US Air Force said: "There were no injuries sustained, the fire has been contained and currently poses no risk to the base populace or local community. "We are thankful for the support of our local community members and services. The safety of our personnel, families and surrounding communities remains our top priority. "An investigation has been initiated and is ongoing. More information will be released as it becomes available." Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service stated on Sunday: "The fire involved a single-storey industrial storage building. It was brought under control safely and there were no casualties. "Crews remain at the scene this morning as a precaution and to ensure the incident is fully resolved. Fire investigation is ongoing and the early indication suggests the cause of fire was nothing other than accidental."