Simpler Recycling: A Guide to the New UK Food Waste Rules

The UK is introducing new "Simpler Recycling" regulations under the Environment Act 2021 to standardise how food waste is managed across England. The primary goal is to divert organic waste from landfills to more sustainable methods like composting or anaerobic digestion.

Key Deadlines

• 31 March 2025: Most businesses and non-household organisations (such as schools, hospitals, and offices) must begin separating food waste from general rubbish.

• 31 March 2026: All households across England must be provided with weekly food waste collections by their local authorities.

• 31 March 2027: Micro-businesses (those with fewer than 10 full-time employees) must comply by this date.

---

Rules for Businesses and Organisations

• Mandatory Separation: Food waste must be stored in its own dedicated bins, separate from dry recyclables and general waste.

• Licensed Disposal: Waste must be collected by a licensed carrier; it is strictly prohibited to dispose of food waste into the sewer system using macerators or liquidisers.

• Scope: This applies to all "non-household" premises, including care homes and catering businesses.

---

What Can Be Recycled?

The new system covers nearly all organic food matter, including:

• Prepared Food: Leftovers, plate scrapings, and out-of-date food (removed from packaging).

• Proteins & Dairy: Raw or cooked meat, fish, bones, and dairy products.

• Produce: Fruit, vegetables, bread, and pastries.

• Beverage Waste: Tea bags and coffee grounds.

---

Why the Change?

By ensuring food waste is recycled rather than sent to landfill, the government aims to reduce environmental harm, cut down on unpleasant odours from bin stores, and improve the overall sustainability of the UK's waste management infrastructure.

Source (for details): https://www.gov.uk/guidance/simpler-recycling-household-recycling-in-england

Simpler recycling infographic (click to view enlarged)

Simpler recycling infographic (pdf)

Working Together for a Safer Bexley 🛡️🏡

Keeping our community safe is a team effort. We’ve put together this essential Resident Safety & Crime Prevention guide to help you protect your home, stay secure online, and know exactly how to report concerns.

Small steps—like checking your car is locked or joining your local Neighbourhood Watch—make a huge difference. Scan the QR code in the top left for more resources and let’s keep Bexley one of London’s safest boroughs.

(click image to view enlarged)

Click to Download above as flyer (pdf)

Anti Social Behaviour In Parks - MetEngage Northumberland Heath

Please review the following update regarding Anti Social Behaviour which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.
 

Please ensure that if you experience/witness Anti Social Behaviour in any of our parks/open spaces in Northumberland Heath, that you let us know. Report it online so your local SNT team can be made aware. As we continue to experience pleasant weather, parks like Northumberland Heath Recreational Ground are known to attract young people. ASB has a massive affect on those trying to enjoy our open spaces and also nearby residents. Officers will be patrolling these open spaces this spring and summer to provide suitable reassurance to you all- come and say hello if you see us!

Antisocial behaviour can come in many forms and can require support from more organisations than just the police. There are 13 different types of antisocial behaviour that we may be able to help with, including abandoned vehicles, littering or drugs paraphernalia and street drinking. A full list of what we categorise as antisocial behaviour is available on our website.  

 

If you have witnessed or experienced antisocial behaviour, you can report it online.

 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

Get Involved

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

 

Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey.  We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/420397/Anti-Social-Behaviour-In-Parks 

Local Priorities Drug dealing/ drug use Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide an update regarding drug dealing / drug use, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Our officers were out on foot patrol this week and were made aware that there are people gathering and dealing drugs around the Shenstone Park area. They completed a drugs and weapons sweep of the area pointed out to them.
At our Ward Panel meeting on Saturday 28th March it was agreed by our residents that they would like this area to be one of our priorities, along with areas around Shearwood Crescent and Maiden Lane.

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

  We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/422069/Local-Priorities-Drug-dealing-drug-use-Message 

Local Priorities Burglary Update - MetEngage Sidcup

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

Unfortunately we have had another two burglaries reported these past few days.

BEXLEY LANE - On Thursday 26th March at approximately 2110hrs an attempted burglary took place. Victim was home when he heard the bins being rattled. Also heard door handle at the rear door being tested but fortunately this door was locked. Victim went outside and saw 3 suspects who then fled from the scene.

BIRCHWOOD AVENUE - Unclear the time frame for this one as victims are away. Burglary was discovered yesterday by a friend checking on the property. An untidy search took place throughout but, its not clear what's been stolen. This was reported to the police on 27th March after 2200hrs.


As you can tell there has been a spate of burglaries on our ward, as well as neighbouring wards. The team have been following these all up looking for CCTV/ witnesses enquiries. What's clear is that most (if not all) are occurring between 1700hrs-2200hrs.
All of the burglaries where the suspects have been successful have occurred when the properties are empty, lights are off and the properties have no burglary alarms. We are continuing our efforts to get on top of this however, please consider a burglary alarm because it is a massive deterrent. 99.9% of burglaries on our ward this year just haven't got a burglary alarm.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/421797/Local-Priorities-Burglary-Update 

Local Priorities Drug dealing/ drug use Message - MetEngage BLENDON & PENHILL

I wanted to provide an update regarding drug dealing / drug use, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

 

In the early hours of 21/03/2026 the teams from Blendon & Penhill and Falconwood & Welling while on night patrol made a stop on a male, this resulted in the male being arrested for the following:
- Possession With Intent To Supply Class A drugs
- Possession of Class C drug Nitrous Oxide
- Possession of an offensive weapon.

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/418291/Local-Priorities-Drug-dealing-drug-use-Message

Fire at scrap metal recycling yard - Erith🔥

Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters have been called to a fire at a scrap metal recycling yard on Manor Road in Erith.

Around 400 tonnes of scrap metal is affected by the fire.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Arnold, who is at the scene, said: "Crews are working hard to bring the fire at a scrap metal recycling yard under control. This will be a protracted incident, with firefighters expected to be on scene for most of the day.

"The fire is producing a significant amount of smoke in the vicinity, which is moving east towards Dartford. 

"We strongly urge people who live or work nearby to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area where possible."

One of the Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders is being used at the scene as a water tower to tackle flames from height.

The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of 16 calls to the fire at 0456 and sent fire crews from Erith, Bexley, Plumstead, Sidcup and surrounding fire stations to the scene.

The cause of the fire is not known at this time.

 

Source - LFB (28/03/2026)

How to Check if You Are Owed Money for Past Car Finance

If you bought a car, van, or motorbike on finance before 28 January 2021, you might be due a significant refund. A major investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is currently looking into "hidden commission" deals that saw many UK drivers overcharged.

Here is a simple guide on how to use the free tools provided by MoneySavingExpert (MSE) to see if you are eligible and how to start your claim.

What is the Car Finance Scandal?

For years, some car dealers and finance companies had "discretionary commission" arrangements. This meant lenders allowed dealers to increase the interest rate on a loan so the dealer could earn a bigger commission. This was often done without the customer’s knowledge, meaning many people paid much more than they should have.

Step 1: Find Your Past Agreements

If you can’t remember who your finance provider was or how many agreements you had, Martin Lewis recommends using a credit reporting tool like MyEquifax. FREE Equifax Basic signup.

By checking your credit file, you can see a list of previous lenders and the dates of your agreements. This is a vital first step if you no longer have your original paperwork.

Step 2: Use the Free Reclaim Tool

You do not need to pay a lawyer or a claims management company to do this for you. MoneySavingExpert has launched a that makes the process straightforward.

1. Enter your details: Use the MSE tool to generate a formal request.

2. Use the template: The tool provides an easy template letter/email.

3. Submit to the provider: You send this directly to the bank or finance company that provided the loan.

The goal of this letter is to ask two simple questions: Was there a discretionary commission arrangement on my loan? And if so, I want to lodge a formal complaint.

Step 3: Wait for the Investigation

The FCA has paused the deadline for firms to respond to these specific complaints while they finish their investigation (expected by May 2025). However, it is important to get your complaint in now to log your place in the queue and protect yourself against any future time limits.

A Warning: Beware of Scammers

Because this is such a high-profile news story, scammers are currently targeting people via text, email, and phone calls.

• Ignore "Cold Calls": If someone contacts you claiming they can get you a car finance refund for a fee, be extremely cautious.

• Avoid "No Win, No Fee" Firms: These companies often take a large cut (30% to 50%) of any money you get back. You can do this yourself for free using the MSE tool.

• Stick to Official Sources: Only use reputable sites like MoneySavingExpert or go directly through the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Summary

If you had a car on finance (PCP or Hire Purchase) before January 2021, it only takes a few minutes to check. Use your credit report to find the lenders, use the MSE template to send your emails, and keep a record of your correspondence. It could result in a payout of over £1,000 depending on the size of your loan.

Source: For more detailed advice visit https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/reclaim-car-finance/#tool

Free tools to stop scammers

Scams are constantly evolving, so it pays to stay one step ahead. But you don't need to download expensive software to protect yourself – many of the most useful anti-scam tools are already built into your phone and online accounts.

A few small changes will make a big difference. We run you through how to use these free tools and reduce your risk of being scammed.

Source: Which? (26 Mar 2026)

10 things every smartphone owner should do now

Smartphones help us communicate, make payments on the move and store sensitive data. As a result, learning how to secure your device against threats is crucial.

It takes just a few minutes to make some tweaks to your device settings that will have a huge impact. Our tech expert, Tom Morgan, has rounded up some tips to keep your phone secure.

If you'd benefit from 1-to-1 help with your smartphone or other tech products, you can join Which? Tech Support and chat to our friendly experts on the phone or by email, as often as you need. Find out more about the support on offer and get 50% off a Tech annual membership for the first year. Offer ends 6 April.

Source: Which? (23 Mar 2026)

How to use public wi-fi safely

Public wi-fi hotspots are convenient when you're out and about, but be careful to keep your data safe. For starters, you'll need to be wary of nosy onlookers peering at your screen if you're in a bustling café. But there are plenty of other ways to keep your information private.

We share eight security tips for phone and laptop users, including how to check whether a network is safe to join.

Source: Which? (26 Mar 2026)

Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicles Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles,  which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

A white Ford Transit Tipper has been stolen from Green Walk between 19.00 on 22nd March and 05.45 on 23rd March. Should you see a distinctive vehicle such as this and believe it to be abandoned/stolen please call 101.
Please review your vehicle security.

We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/419109/Local-Priorities-Theft-Of-Motor-Vehicles-Message

Local Priorities Burglary Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

 

There has been a burglary in Crayford. It took place on Friday 20th March between 13.30-14.00. Entry was made via the rear of the property, there was an untidy search and the suspect(s) left the building via the front door. Laptops, jewellery, the keys to a vehicle and the vehicle were stolen.
Burglary is not a regular occurrence in Crayford so please take a few moments to review your home security.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/419102/Local-Priorities-Burglary-Message

Message from the Team - MetEngage Barnehurst

Dear Residents,

 

Firstly I would like to say thank you for signing up to MET ENGAGE!

 

Just to let you know that we will be holding “Street a Week” soon. The nights are getting longer and the weather will be getting better for us to hold these.  This will give you an opportunity to come and meet the team and discuss any local issues you may have.

 

I will let you know when and where we will be doing this.  We will drop letters to houses and also send out a message by MET ENGAGE.

 

Crime on Barnehurst Ward is relatively low.  The team continue to patrol the area.  Showing a presence on the Ward to reassure residents on the and also to help prevent crime.

 

If there are any burglaries or car thefts we will visit the victim and carry out CCTV enquiries to surrounding neighbours and focus on proactive patrols around the location.

 

Thank you again for your support from the Team!

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/420023/Message-from-the-Team

Cyber Alert: Sophisticated "Cloud Storage Full" Phishing Scam

A new wave of phishing emails is targeting UK users, claiming their cloud storage is "100% Full" due to a failed subscription payment. This is a scam designed to steal your credit card details and personal information.

How the Scam Works

You receive an email with the subject line "RE: Storage Warning: Account at 100%". The email uses urgent language to panic you into acting quickly, claiming:

• Your subscription has been suspended.

• Your account has been downgraded to a 5 GB free tier.

• Your photos and videos are "at risk of deletion."

• There is a prominent "Renew Now" button.

Why It’s a Fake

Even though the graphics look professional, there are several "red flags" that give it away:

1. The Sender’s Address: In recent examples, the email came from a random Outlook address (e.g., giordano.629arny@outlook.com) rather than an official company domain (like @https://www.google.com/search?q=google.com or @apple.com).

2. Generic Greeting: It doesn't use your name, just "to me."

3. Artificial Urgency: Scammers love to threaten the loss of your data (especially photos) to make you click without thinking.

4. RE: in the Subject: Adding "RE:" makes it look like part of an ongoing conversation you never actually started.

What to Do If You Get This Email

• Do NOT click any links or the "Renew Now" button.

• Check your account manually: If you’re worried, go directly to the official website or app of your storage provider to check your status. Never use the links provided in an unexpected email.

• Report it: Forward the email to the National Cyber Security Centre at report@phishing.gov.uk.

• Delete it: Once reported, delete the email from your inbox and your "Deleted Items" folder.

Stay vigilant and keep your data safe!

scam email (click to view enlarged)

Bexley Borough Risk Management Plan Apr 2025-Mar 2026 - LFB

 

Source: 

• https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/community/bexley/bexley-borough-risk-management-plan/
• https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/about-us/your-london-fire-brigade-our-plan-for-2023-29/

Burglary Prevention Advice - MetEngage Northumberland Heath

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

As we begin to enjoy lovely warm weather, your local Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to remind you of key steps you can take to prevent the risk of being burgled. As the weather gets warmer, we can be tempted to leave windows open all day/night. Remember to lock them when you're not home and overnight, while also remembering to move valuables that may be on display during the day time when your windows are open. As we spend more time in the garden, please make sure you are locking your side gates/fences/back doors overnight.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/417617/Burglary-Prevention-Advice

Theft of Vehicle - MetEngage Barnehurst

This is to let you know that there has been theft of a Kia Sportage on Barnehurst this week.

 

We know the personal and financial impact of having a car or bike stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. We will continue to provide you updates on how we are tackling this issue in your local area, but in the meantime, please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

 

Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

 

Full advice and guidance on this, and other crime types is available on the Metropolitan Police website.

 

We hope the information above is useful and addresses to some degree the concerns that you have raised. If you have experienced this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/417834/Theft-of-Vehicle

Warehouse fire - Belvedere 🔥

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters are tackling a fire at a warehouse on St Thomas Road in Belvedere.

Part of a mezzanine floor is alight.

The Brigade's Control Officers took the first call to the fire at 1417 and mobilised crews from Erith, Plumstead, East Greenwich, Greenwich, Sidcup and surrounding fire stations to the scene. 

The cause of the fire is not known at this time.

Source: LFB (20 Mar 2026)

Save on Petrol, Diesel, and EV Charging: Find the Best Prices Near You

With fuel prices on the rise across the UK, it pays to check the local rates before you head to the forecourt. Even a few pence difference per litre can add up to a significant saving on a full tank.

To make sure you aren’t overpaying, you can use the Fuel Finder website to compare live prices in your immediate area. It is a quick and simple way to see which supermarket or independent station is offering the best deal today.

A One-Stop Search for Every Driver

Whether you drive a traditional combustion engine or have made the switch to electric, Fuel Finder has you covered. The platform allows you to search for:

• Petrol & Diesel: Compare standard E10 petrol, B7 diesel, and premium high-performance fuels.

• EV Charging Sites: Locate charging points across the UK, including rapid and fast chargers, to plan your stops efficiently.

Reliable, Real-Time Data

You can search with confidence knowing the fuel information is based on the official UK Government Fuel Finder scheme. Since February 2026, UK fuel retailers have been legally required to report their price changes to a central government database within 30 minutes of any update.

While the government provides this data feed, they do not run their own consumer app. Instead, they make it available to independent sites like fuel-finder.uk to ensure drivers have easy access to official accuracy and national coverage from thousands of stations and charging points nationwide.

You can find more information about the underlying data and the mandatory reporting scheme here: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fuel-finder

---

Find the cheapest fuel or nearest charging point in your area now at fuel-finder.uk.

Further information:

• https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/fuel-news/government-launches-fuel-finder/
• https://fuelfinderuk.live/
• https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fuelprices.live&pcampaignid=web_share
• https://www.moneysupermarket.com/car-insurance/petrol-prices/ 👈🆕
• https://www.petrolprices.com/