Three fire service chiefs from Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service who were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the fatal fire that gutted Wealmoor’s Atherstone on Stour packing plant in November 2007 have now been released on bail, pending further enquiries.

A 43-year-old man from Nuneaton, a 49-year-old-man from Leamington and a 49-year-old man from the Warwick area presented themselves at a police station in Warwickshire, where they have been questioned in relation to gross negligence manslaughter and offences under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Questioning is continuing today.

The bodies of firefighters Ashley Stephens, 20, John Averis, 27, and Darren Yates-Badley, 24, were found inside the remains of the building days after the fire. Ian Reid, 44, died in hospital.

A Fire Brigades Union (FBU) spokesman said he could confirm the arrested men were fire service staff and members of the union. They will be getting legal representation from the FBU.