Kept popping and banging': Firefighters called to blaze near B&Q store

Firefighters were called to a blaze near a B&Q store in Gravesend, extinguishing it without reported injuries. Crews responded to the incident on Thames Way shortly before 9:30 p.m. on July 7, with two fire engines on scene and a hose reel used to put out the flames. A witness said he noticed fire spreading from between the DIY shop’s fence and an alleyway to nearby trees and bushes about 15 minutes earlier. He reported that flames were near an electrical tower and that something kept “popping and banging.” Firefighters brought the blaze under control by 10:22 p.m., and the cause remains unknown. B&Q was approached for comment.