Rugeley rubbish fire: Asbestos found

Firefighters have been battling the waste fire in Rugeley for more than two weeks

Asbestos has been found at an ongoing rubbish fire in Staffordshire.

The fire - made up of 1,000 tonnes of waste, mainly shredded wood - has been burning for more than two weeks at Oak Farm in Rugeley.

Cannock Chase Council said it was consulting with experts about the potential impact of asbestos in the smoke.

Residents have complained about having to keep their doors and windows closed in order to keep out the fumes.

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Deputy chief fire officer Rob Barber said: "We can confirm that a small amount of boarding was found at the site and tests have identified it as cement asbestos boarding.

"We are currently reviewing operational tactics and we will continue to work closely with our partners at Public Health England and the Environment Agency to monitor and assess the situation."

The fire started on 5 September.

A controlled burn has been taking place amid fears water supplies could be contaminated.

Public Health England has advised residents to keep windows and doors closed.