FIREFIGHTERS from Dorset were called to a blaze at a recycling centre in Wiltshire earlier today.

 

A breathing apparatus support unit from Dorchester was tasked with assisting colleagues at a fire at the recycling centre in Swindon just after midday.

 

Initial reports of the blaze at Cheney Manor Industrial Estate came in at 10.53am, with the Dorset crew called an hour or so later to help tackle the fire alongside other teams.

 

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “A fire involving a domestic waste baler within the waste processing plant at Swindon Borough Council’s household recycling centre at the Cheney Manor Industrial Estate in Swindon has now been extinguished.

 

“At the height of the incident, there were crews in attendance from Westlea, Swindon, Stratton (x2), Royal Wootton Bassett, Faringdon, Marlborough, Chippenham, Fairford and Cirencester, together with the aerial ladder platform from Swindon, an incident command vehicle from Devizes and a water carrier from Gloucester (as well as the Dorchester support unit)

 

“The fire was contained to the affected building, with eight breathing apparatus wearers using four main jets and two hose reel jets.

 

“As of 3.15pm the fire had been extinguished and firefighters are now focusing on dealing with hot spots within the conveyor belt system. 

 

“The attendance on scene is being scaled back, with four crews to stay on-site for a while longer.

 

“The fire started accidentally within the affected machine.”

 

Members of the public were also urged to avoid the area.