Explosion at Chemical Works of Messrs Bush & Co
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| Date Photo Taken | 30th March 1933 |
|---|---|
| Area | Mitcham |
| Copyright 1 | Keystone View Company |
| Picture Reference | Mit_Org_Events_8-10 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | Backs of houses in Belgrave Road extensively damaged by the blast at the chemical works backing onto Belgrave Road. Many of those injured and the one fatality were residents of Belgrave Road and had been in their houses when the explosion occurred at 7am. People immediately started running into the streets as the houses started collapsing. Sightseers arrived from surrounding districts as the explosion had been heard and felt over much of South London and was reported by the national as well as the local press. The explosion was due to a tank of methylated spirits boiling over and igniting. The chemical works was distilling peppermint and lavender following a long Mitcham tradition of distilling perfumes from lavender and other plants. |
