UPDATED: 250 West Worthing homes evacuated after fire '“ with map of exclusion zone

Firefighters were called at 1.45am today (Thursday, December 3), after fire started at a vehicle recovery business.

Neighbours were evacuated from a 200 metre cordon as there were fears the fire could cause welding equipment, including acetylene cylinders, might explode.

See a map of the exclusion zone by clicking here.

Diesel and at least one recovery truck were also on the premises.

A rest centre was set up at Durrington Leisure Centre for families evacuated from the area.

Anyone who would like to check if their family is in the centre can call Worthing Borough Council on 01903 502237.

The site backs onto the railway line and trains are not running between Worthing and Littlehampton.

Keep up-to-date with the train times to and from Worthing railway station by clicking here.

The cordon will be in place until at least 5pm today when it will be reassessed.

It could remain in place until Friday.

The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is not thought to be linked to the recent series of arson attacks in the Tarring area of Worthing.

Worthing Leisure Centre is open as usual.

Bin collections have been suspended in the area, but Worthing Borough Council has confirmed they will be collected tomorrow.

Keep an eye on this website for updates.

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