Cargo ship fire in port 'likely to be an accident'

Firefighters who tackled a large blaze on a cargo ship in Hull say they think it started by accident, and they are "not looking at anything deliberate".

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service was called to Albert Dock at about 10:20 BST on Friday after the blaze started in a cargo hold containing 3,500 tonnes of scrap metal. It took crews until 05:00 BST on Saturday to put it out.

Investigations into the cause are expected to continue for the next few days

The service's Glyn Saunders said: "The investigation is ongoing but we're looking at an accidental cause. It was a deep-seated fire and a challenging day, but one with a successful outcome."

The BBC identified the vessel as the Altay – a bulk carrier that has been docked in the city since 23 June.

Large plumes of smoke were visible across the city, leading to the closure of roads and businesses in the immediate area.

Michael Ledger, director of Seasider Seafoods, based on English Street, estimated the incident cost his business more than £1,000.

He said: "We were advised to close because of potential toxic fumes so we put the shutters down.

"We've still had to pay the staff, we've lost sales and we've got to suck it up and take it on the chin. It's significant for a small business."

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