A Falmouth church is on standby as an emergency respite centre for people evacuated from the currently “critical” incident at Falmouth Docks.

Between 30 and 40 potentially explosive cylinders are either on fire or at risk of setting alight.

A couple of explosions have already been heard and 40 firefighters are currently on the scene attempting to put out the flames and also cool the remaining cylinders to try and prevent them from going up also.

Two small areas of cylinders are currently alight but the fear is that two larger areas could also catch on fire.

A quarter of a mile exclusion zone has been set up, taking in Castle Drive and Pendennis Rise, including the student flats.

Cornwall Council’s emergency management service is on standby to set up a respite centre at the Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Staff from the council's Adult Care and Support are also on standby to provide support for people affected.

Michael Sweeney of Falmouth’s National Maritime Museum has already offered the museum as a safe house for people evacuated.

The first warning came just after 8.30pm, when the warning sirens at the docks sounded continuously for ten minutes.

It is understood that the fire broke out in the fabrication shop at the docks.

  • Are you in the area? Do you have photos of the incident? Give us a call on 01326 213336 or email paul.armstrong@packetseries.co.uk