CLOUDS of black smoke billowing from burning tyres near a primary school have led to fears that children’s health could be at risk from "toxic fallout".

More than 200 tyres were set alight on Friday on private land next to Hoath Wood, East Malling.

The black smoke began blowing towards the Discovery School, Discovery Drive, Kings Hill, alarming nearby residents.

Varsha Patel, of Dawn Lane, Kings Hill, said: "How can this carry on when there are children playing nearby? Their lungs will be affected if they inhale it in and the fumes are damaging the environment."

Terry Carter, who witnessed the rising smoke, said he was appalled by the overwhelming stench.

"The toxic fallout is a health hazard to the residents and construction workers on nearby sites," he said.

"I was shocked when I saw the smoke blowing in the direction of the school. The children were playing in the school compound at the morning break and breathing the fumes."

Firefighters from Larkfield and Maidstone spent more than two hours tackling the blaze, using foam to reduce the smoke.

One of the firefighters, Joe Luque, said hosing the flames would cause contaminated fluid to enter the water course, which was more environmentally damaging.

A Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council spokeswoman said officers were investigating incidents of air pollution with the intention of prosecuting for offences under clean air law.

"The council is also liaising with Kent County Council and the Environment Agency about taking enforcement action under planning and waste management law," she added.

Alison Farrall, head teacher at the Discovery School, said the Environment Agency had informed them it would be alerted if there was a significant risk to pupils.