A GARDENING charity in Dawlish has been forced to close today following reports of a fire.

Dawlish Gardens Trust in Port Road announced it has had to shut ‘due to unforseen circumstances’.

A spokesman said: ‘Everything is under control and we will keep you all updated.

‘We apologise for any inconvenience.’

The trust confirmed there had been a fire last night which was contained to a small area of the site.

Fiona Gibson, general manager Dawlish Gardens Trust, said: ‘The Trust experienced a fire yesterday evening which thanks to the prompt action of neighbours and the Fire Brigade was quickly contained to a small area of the site.

‘No personnel were on site at the time and no livestock was involved. The cause is not considered to be suspicious.’

The announcement followed reports of smoke seen coming from the site of the trust which provides training, vocational experiences and support for people with learning difficulties and disabilities.

Fire crews were seen at the garden’s premises and there were reports of thick smoke seen in the area.