Residents today demanded action to stop private garages being used as car workshops after a serious fire almost caused an explosion.

They say a long-running battle to halt car repairs in private garages in Fitzmaurice Avenue, Eastbourne, has amounted to nothing.

Concern was raised again when fire tore through some of the garages on Tuesday evening, almost causing gas cylinders inside to explode.

Families from Sussex Court were given overnight accommodation at the Sovereign Centre while up to 25 firefighters battled the flames for more than three hours.

Today, as they returned home, residents renewed their demands for action to prevent the garages being used as workplaces.

Many have complained about the noise of cars being broken up and the storing of gas cylinders in a residential area.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said: "This has been going on since 1983 and we are fed up with it.

"Not only is it a nuisance but also hazardous as this incident plainly proves.

"If firmer action was taken, then people round here would feel safer and not driven to such distraction."

Grandmother Dorothy Osborne, of Fitzmaurice Avenue, said: "We have put up with this for long enough."

Officials at Eastbourne Borough Council today said a thorough investigation would be held into residents' complaints.

A council spokesman said: "We are aware of the complaints from local residents and will be looking into all the concerns raised."