A pile of smouldering wood chippings is causing a stink across Medway.

People across the Towns have noticed a burning acrid smell wafting across the river from the direction of Chatham Docks.

The odour coming from the commercial docks, off Pier Road, Gillingham, is wafting as far as Strood and Hoo Marina.

It is coming from a gigantic stockpile of woodchip which is being stored there by Peel Ports, which operate the site.

Bound for Sweden, it has been on the dockside longer than expected and has begun to degrade, which is causing the smell. It is believed it could be there for several more weeks.

Peel Ports is working alongside the Environment Agency to try and reduce the pong and prevention measures are being put in place.

Wood chippings can sometimes spontaneously combust as they decompose.
James Cutting, 41, of Darnley Road, Strood, said he and his neighbours can smell it from their homes.

James said: "It's like a chemical smell, I hope it's not harmful. I hope it is not allowed to happen again, it's hideous."

Ron Lunn, of Hoo Marina Park, said: "We've been smelling it for about the past four weeks, it really gets up your nose."

Craig Bassett, general manger of Peel Ports, said: "It is a short term issue and we appreciate the situation is causing an inconvenience to residents. We are working along site the Environment Agency to resolve the issue."

Jon Griffin, from the Environment Agency, added: "We understand that strong odour can cause a lot of distress to communities.

"This site and the reported issues are a top priority and we are working with the operator, Peel Ports, to resolve the problems related to their activities as quickly as possible.

"In the interim we would appreciate anyone who is experiencing odour and dust problems to call our hotline on 0800 807060."

Have you smelt the pong? Leave your comments below.