Fire crews tackling recycling centre blaze

Fire crews have urged residents to close their windows as they tackle a fire at a recycling centre on a Kent industrial estate.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said four fire engines had been sent to battle a blaze at the site in Clipper Close, Strood, on Friday.

The fire in the Medway City Estate was first reported shortly after 05:50 BST, a spokesperson for the service said.

A spokesperson for Viridor, which operates the recycling centre, said all staff were "safe and accounted for".

Andy Wall, director of CC Supplies and Workwear, a neighbouring business on the estate, said he could see a "black line" of smoke as he drove to the site.

"I was worried it was our building but as we got here we could see the smoke billowing through the gap," he said.

"All the vehicles are covered in black dust. It's a bit worrying, we have a lot of stock in our building."

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "People living or travelling near this area are being advised to close windows and doors due to smoke coming from the site.

"Please share this information with any loved ones in the area who may be affected but do not have access to the internet."

No further details were available regarding the cause of the fire or damage caused, a spokesperson for Viridor added.

Matt Grimshaw, co-owner of Sisu fitness based on the Medway City Estate, said: "We found out first thing this morning when we saw billowing black smoke from the estate.

"We've had to shut all the doors and windows in the gym. It's a hot summer's day so I'm concerned it is going to heat up later today."

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