Epping fire horror as locals urged to 'keep windows and doors shut' over huge smoke clouds

Around 40 firefighters have tackled a scrap yard blaze in Epping, where a huge cloud of smoke has sparked warnings for locals to keep their windows and doors closed - and not to be alarmed by explosions.

The large fire broke out in Thornwood, Epping, at around 7.23am this morning, sending a massive plume of smoke into the air.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were joined by crews from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service as members of the public were warned "please keep all your windows and doors shut".

The blaze also sparked a road closure while emergency services worked in the area. Pictures from the area showed multiple fire crews at the scene.

The fire service reassured the public that they should not be alarmed by explosions, which were expected as vehicles were involved in the blaze, reports the BBC .

Group Manager Steve Wintrip said: "Crews are currently dealing with a large scrap yard fire. There is a lot of smoke coming from the scene so if you live or work nearby please keep all your windows and doors shut.

"The fire is under control and the road will remain closed for some time while we continue to deal with the incident for the rest of the day."