Man arrested on suspicion of arson following Annitsford lorry fire

Fire services were called to what's been described as a large quantity of "tyres and scrap" on fire. Credit: Twitter: @ChrisLewin

A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a lorry fire.

Thick plumes of black smoke could be seen furling from the scene in North Tyneside on Wednesday 2 August, leading the fire service to warn people living in Burradon, Killingworth, Dudley and Fordley to shut their doors and windows.

Emergency services were called to what was been described as a large quantity of "tyres and scrap" on fire near the Moor Farm Roundabout towards Annitsford just after 6pm.

Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service sent three appliances to the scene, with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service providing additional assistance.

The incident was brought to an end at 9:36pm.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly after 6pm yesterday (Wednesday), we were informed by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service of a lorry trailer on fire at Annitsford.

“Emergency services attended and the fire was put out a while later.

“No-one is believed to have been injured.

“Officers have arrested a 36-year-old man on suspicion of arson and he is currently in police custody.”

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