The house is one of the largest villas in Rushden and was occupied for many years by the late Mr. James Hyde, boot manufacturer, and his wife. In the last few years, however, it has stood empty except for short periods.

Passing the house at 11 p.m. on Wednesday, Mr. Robert Marriott and Mr. F. W. Parker, both of Higham Ferrers, saw flames within the lower bays and gave the alarm at the police station nearby.

Meanwhile others in the house and grounds were trying to check the fire, but the situation was alarming when the Fire Brigade arrived under the command of Chief-Officer A. P. Timpson.

It was a noisy as well as spectacular fire, and the authorities closed a considerable section of the road until the brigade obtained full control. The water pressure was at first unsatisfactory, but the firemen finally connected to a hydrant at the foot of Higham-hill and worked smartly with excellent results. The danger was over by 11.45.

The house, as viewed from the outside, is still intact, though some of the windows are broken and blackened. Inside, however, the damage must have been considerable.

This was the second fire at Rushden on successive days.