Arrest made in Yorkshire tyre fire investigation

Police arrest 51-year-old man as part of investigation into fire at tyre recycling site in Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Police have arrested a 51-year-old man in connection with the fire at a tyre recycling plant near York, which lead to concerns over air quality in the area.

The arrest follows the launch of a joint investigation into the cause of the fire by the Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service. Following questioning the man was released on police bail yesterday pending further enquiries.

Emergency services now have the blaze at the site in Sherburn-in-Elmet ‘under control’

The fire broke out at the Newgen Recycling site at Lennerton Lane in Sherburn-in-Elmet on Thursday morning (January 16) and although fire crews have now brought the blaze under control, they are expected to remain on the site for another two weeks.

The blaze caused a plume of smoke which reached up to 6,000 ft high at its peak, leading to concerns over the health effect for residents living close to the site as the smoke begins to drop.

Odour

Residents have been advised to avoid any contact with the smoke by remaining indoors as much as possible and keeping windows and doors closed. They have also been warned that a strong odour will remain in the air for some time, although this is not thought to be a cause for concern.

In a statement, North Yorkshire Police said: “The situation continues to be under control with North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue  expected to remain on site for the next two weeks or so.
“The fire is reducing in size and the smoke plume is now much lighter in colour and dispersing in the wind.”

The statement added: “Residents in Sherburn in Elmet and the surrounding area are still advised to avoid any contact with the smoke by remaining indoors as much as possible, ensuring windows and doors are closed as a precaution. This includes closing car windows, air vents and turning off air conditioning when driving.

“A strong odour will be noticeable in the wider area during this period, which health officials say is not a cause for concern.

“However, if you are concerned about the effects of smoke on your health, telephone your GP or call the NHS on 111 without delay.”