UPDATE - FOOTS CRAY: Serious cylinder blaze closes Cray Road (From News Shopper)

UPDATE - FOOTS CRAY: Serious cylinder blaze closes Cray Road

10:50am Wednesday 17th March 2010 in

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FIREFIGHTERS look set to remain on an industrial estate for much of today (March 17) after a fire at a car parts workshop in Foots Cray.

At one point, six fire engines were in Cray Road tackling the blaze at Volks-Apart car part specialists, which started at around 6.30am.

Gas cylinders are thought to have been affected by the heat and a large cordon has been placed around the building.

At 9.30am, onlookers watched on as flames continued to emerge through the blackened roof.

Fire crews were still on the scene late this morning and were expected to remain there for much of the day.

Police were forced to close the road and divert traffic along Foots Cray High Street and Maidstone Road.

Workers from nearby businesses have been evacuated and buses have been placed on diversion.

Bruce Devonish, 22, saw the flames and smoke from where he works at Brook House schools supplier.

He said: “I heard several explosions and saw sparks come out of the roof.”

One evacuated worker said he could see the smoke from the fire from the M25 as he drove to work.

And another Brook House employee, 33-year-old Ben Ellis, said: “I saw a lot of smoke and flames. "I don’t know if anyone was injured although there was a lot of ambulances around.

“We have been standing outside for a while but haven’t been told how long we may have to wait.”

Cray Road is closed both ways between Crittal's Corner roundabout and Sidcup Hill and police officers are on the scene directing traffic.

There are no reported injuries and the owners of Volks-Apart were at the scene today.

Are you stuck in traffic or did you see what happened? Call the newsroom on 01689 885703 or email your news, pictures and videos to newsroom@london.newsquest.co.uk.