A TYRE firm has battled back and re-opened after losing £10,000 of stock in a devastating arson attack in Westcliff.
Dozens of firefighters were met by searing flames as they battled the blaze at RSK Tyres, in London Road, at around 2.30am on March 22. 
Two tonnes of tyres, as well as a number of vehicles, had been engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived.
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Following an investigation by the fire service, the blaze was recorded as being started deliberately and Essex Police has now confirmed it is investigating the incident as an arson attack.
Bosses at RSK Tyres were left devastated by the fire after the site suffered damage to the outside, of the business as well as losing around £10,000 worth of stock, but have re-opened this week in a bid to continue trading. 
A spokesman for RSK Tyres told the Echo: “We have re-opened now, which is great.
“There was quite a bit of damage, we had to replace the fence around us, and the side of the building. But sadly, we lostlots around £8,000 to £10,000 worth of stock.
“But as soon as the police said we can re-open, we did. We already had people lined up straight away to do some repairs so we could open.
“It was such a shock and a huge devastation to us. But we are now back open.
“It is heartbreaking it could be arson. I don’t understand why anyone would do something like that.”  
At the time of the fire, residents spoke about how they were woken up to the sounds of “explosions” as several cars went up in flames.
Some in the nearby houses were evacuated as the fire crews foughttackled to prevent it from spreading.
A spokesman for Essex Police confirmed the incident is being treated as arson.
They said: “We are investigating a fire in Westcliff which is being treated as arson.
“It was reported a white Ford Transit van parked in a carpark near to RSK Tyres in London Road was deliberately set alight on 22 March 22.The fire caused damage to the premises.
“Enquiries are ongoing. If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us. Please quote the crime reference number 42/55780/23.”
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