Kent Fire: Huge Plume Of Smoke Seen For Miles

People were told to keep their doors and windows closed after a huge tyre fire in Kent sent plumes of black smoke into the sky that could been seen over 20 miles away.

Twelve fire engines and more than 70 firefighters tackled the blaze which broke out on an industrial estate in Gravesend.

Twitter users reported that the smoke could be seen by beachgoers in Southend in neighbouring county Essex.

And passengers on planes flying into and out of London airports could also reportedly see the plume.

Kent Fire and Rescue said crews used three main jets to tackle the fire, which also involved caravans and other vehicle parts.

One person posted that water from the adjacent canal was used to douse the flames.

Roads around the area were closed and drivers warned about poor visibility due to the thick smoke.

Photographs showed firefighters standing on top of what looked like a large gas container while assessing the blaze. The gas containers were not affected.

There were no reports of any injuries.

The Metropolitan Police helicopter has flew to the area to assist the fire brigade.