Monday 2.30pm - latest on the big fire

This is the statement from the district council about last night's fire:Mindless destruction was brought to part of Bexhill late on Sunday night when it is believed arsonists set fire to a supply of recycling wheelie bins in the Wainwright Road Car Park. One of the large Recycling Bins located in the Beeching Road Car Park was also set alight.

As well as destroying the many bins which were being stored there before being delivered to our residents, the fire also burnt out two delivery lorries and, most sadly of all, the adjacent Scout Hut. Residents in nearby properties were initially evacuated but allowed back into their homes some time later in the night.

Rother's staff were put on standby to oversee the setting up of a rest centre, which thankfully, was not required.

Councillor Brian Kentfield, Cabinet Portfolio Holder said "It is hard to comprehend why anyone would wish to cause such mindless devastation as well as putting the lives of those living nearby and Officers from the fire and rescue service at risk."

Whilst the fire has destroyed a number of the bins which were stored there, Chief Executive Derek Stevens was confident that the overall roll out of the new recycling scheme would be delayed by no more than a couple of weeks. Mr Stevens commented. "The most important thing, was that no one was hurt as a result of this dreadful act of destruction and I have nothing but praise for the work of the Fire and Rescue Service and the Police for the way in which they handled the situation."