A FIRE in a bin lorry meant a Ryde road had to be closed this morning.

Emergency services were called to the scene at West Street. 

Southern Vectis diverted its buses via Pellhurst Road, Argyll Street, Green Street, St John's Road, Benett Street, Park Road, George Street, Cross Street and Union Street and hopes to reume the usual route by 11am.

More to follow.

Update: An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: "Firefighters were called to West Street, Ryde, this morning following reports of a collection bin lorry fire.

“The collection crew reacted swiftly and called the fire service at 9.55am after noticing a small fire in the rear compartment of the recycling collections lorry.

"The vehicle was immediately shut down and no crew or bystanders were injured.

“The vehicle is now under instruction of the fire brigade and is being escorted to Lynnbottom recycling centre, where the rear compartment will be emptied in an isolated and controlled area and raked out to make sure the waste contents are fully extinguished.

“The source of the fire is unknown at this time.”