Firefighters tackle fire on ship carrying scrap metal at Bristol's Royal Edward Dock

A large fire has broken out on a ship carrying scrap metal near Bristol.

Fire crews were called to the RIJN Confidence, at the Royal Edward Dock in Avonmouth, at 11:47am.

No casualties have been reported by Avon Fire and Rescue Service.

A spokesperson for Hellas Confidence Ship Management, which manages the ship, said "all crew members have been accounted for" and there have been "no injuries or recorded pollution as a result of the incident."

They said: "A fire was detected within a cargo hold containing scrap metal while loading. The crew immediately activated their fire fighting protocol and informed the local authorities.

"The local fire brigade are on scene and the fire is currently contained."

The fire service confirmed that 11 fire engines, specialist appliances and approximately 60 firefighters were at the incident.

A spokesman for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: "We currently have 11 fire engines, specialist appliances and approximately 60 firefighters on the scene tackling the fire.

"We encourage people to avoid the area while we deal with the fire."

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