London’s ‘biggest fire for several years’ rages

The biggest fire seen in London for many years is now being tackled by 200 firefighters.

Forty fire engines are also at the scene - a recycling centre on Chequers Lane in Dagenham, Essex.

Flames broke out there at 1.15pm and smoke can now be seen from many miles away.

London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson said: "We've not seen a fire of this size in London for several years, it's certainly a dramatic end to the Olympics for the London Fire Brigade.

"That said though, we are still able to attend incidents across the capital and the fire cover we're providing at the Olympic venues has not been affected."

Mr Dobson said there had been no reports of any injuries.

He said: "I would like to reassure people that we are still able to attend incidents across the capital and the fire cover we're providing at the Olympic venues has not been affected.

"At this stage we aren't sure how the blaze started as our focus is getting the flames under control. Fire crews will remain at the scene for as long as necessary and a thorough investigation will begin once the fire is out in order to establish how it started."