CREWS from four stations fought a blaze for more than three hours by the Thames at an industrial site in Tilbury last night (Monday, 7 April).

The alarm was raised around 6.50pm at the site of Fort Road following reports of an outdoor fire.

On arrival, firefighters found approximately 70 tonnes of wood chip alight.

They tackled the fire from both the ground and above using an aerial ladder platform. On-site staff supported the operation by helping to move debris and make sure the fire was fully extinguished.

After around three and a half hours, the incident commander confirmed the fire was out and the scene was safe.

The cause has been recorded as accidental, with the most likely source believed to be a shredding unit.