Lorry driver 'acted quickly' before HGV exploded into flames on street in Wick

A brave lorry driver “acted quickly” before an HGV exploded on a street in Moray.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were called at around 2.14pm on Tuesday to an HGV on fire on Willowbank in Wick.

Footage shared with STV News showed the moment the HGV, believed to be a tar lorry, exploded into flames with onlookers nearby.

Fire crews confirmed that two appliances were sent to the scene and left around 3.50pm with no reported casualties.

Lorry explodes into flames in Wick STV News

Gow Group, which specialises in construction and transport, confirmed one of their drivers was involved in the incident.

It said the driver moved the lorry away from a built-up public area, acting “quickly” and with “bravery”.

On social media, they said: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the local fire brigade for attending so promptly and bringing the fire under control.

“We would also like to commend the bravery of our driver, Paddy Blackwood, who acted quickly to move the lorry away from a built-up public area, helping to minimise the potential risk to others.

“Our thanks also go to the local community who raised their concerns with us, and to the nearby residents at the scene who kindly supported the fire brigade by providing drinks and snacks while they worked.

“We will be conducting a full investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances surrounding the fire.

“Thank you to everyone who assisted and supported us.”

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 2.14pm on Tuesday, September 22 to reports of a lorry on fire at Willowbank in Wick.

“Operations Control immediately mobilised two appliances to the scene and firefighters extinguished the fire.

“There were no reported casualties and crews left the scene at 3.50pm after ensuring the area was made safe.”