Basildon fire: Smoke billows over skyline as crews rush to massive 'grass blaze'

Firefighters have rushed to the scene of and urged members of the public to keep doors and windows closed.

Emergency crews were called to the area of , this afternoon as thick plumes of black smoke can be seen billowing into the sky over the homes. Four fire engines are currently at the scene of the emergency and it is currently unknown what caused the large blaze, which is believed to be at an industrial site. Traffic is understood to be building on the nearby busy A13 road as several road closures are in place this afternoon.

READ MORE:

A spokesman for Essex Fire and Rescue said: "We’ve currently got four crews at the scene of a fire near Vange Park Road in Basildon. The fire is producing lots of smoke so if you live or are travelling nearby, please keep your windows and doors closed."

A spokesman for Essex Police added: "We are supporting our fire service colleagues at the scene of a large fire in Vange Park Road in Vange.

"There are road closures in place, please avoid the area.

Several people shared their own images and videos of the blaze on social media. One person wrote: "It looks like Basildon is on fire, take care everyone."

Last year another fire in Basildon where a recycling centre caught alight. said crews would remain at the scene for at least 48 hours.

Residents were warned to shut doors and windows as smoke continued to plume into the air across the town in the southeast of the county. Group manager for the fire service, Dave Bond, said: "Residents and motorists in the area will see large plumes of smoke over the next few hours as crews continue to extinguish the fire.

"Please keep your doors and windows closed. Take extra care on the roads, but avoid the area if you can."