St Erth fire: Heartfelt message from tyre firm

The owners of the recycling firm, which has been burning all week, have sent a message to the emergency services and the community of St Erth, thanking them for their hard work in support following the fire.

Kathy and Mark Bailey of S W Tyre & Rubber Recyclers have lost their livelihood, priceless memories and even their daughter's pet turtle.

Here is the full text of their Facebook message:

We'd like to thank all of our wonderful friends, family and co-workers for all their support during this incredibly difficult time. We are devastated for our employees who have worked so loyally for us for over 12 years and devastated to have lost not only our livelihood but many personal effects such as a hand made vintage car and many items of sentimental value from Kathy's parents who are both now deceased.

These include photo albums spanning 90 years and diaries dating back to 1884! And also our daughters dear little Turtle 'Alfie' who had become a loved company mascot. Everyone had a little chat with him or gave him some food when passing him in the office. (So sorry Alfie).

Anyone who knows us, knows how hard Mark worked (often 17 hrs a day) to build the recycling plant and maintain it over 15 years. He had only recently completed extensive repairs to our main hopper and repairs to a snapped digger arm. No matter what the set-back or hurdles we faced, Mark (supported by our fantastic friends and employees) worked hard to overcome and continue doing what he believes in so much.

ITV News West Country viewer Sarah Peck filmed the fire on her mobile

We finished work on Monday evening and all usual safety checks were completed. We can only hope that the fire service is able to shed light on the cause of the blaze. We've so far been unable to access the site to ascertain if anything is salvageable but it isn't looking good.

Huge thanks to the Police who were so great last night when we were in such shock (Thank you Nicky) and to the Fire Service who worked so tirelessly throughout the night, they deserve all the praise they get.

Our thoughts also go to the residents of St Erth who bore the brunt of the smoke, we're so sorry you had to endure that, and also to all of the travellers who's journeys were so badly and lengthily disrupted. We are so sorry for you all.

Thank you to everyone for the dozens of messages of support, kindness and so many offers of help, it really does make us so grateful and appreciative to have so many special people in our lives.