Firefighters battle major blaze near Melton

Crews were alerted at 1am this morning (Sunday) to reports an industrial premises containing combustible items including gas cyclinders was on fire.

Fire engines from Melton were deployed to the scene, off St Bartholomews Way, along with others from Oakham, East Leake, West Bridgeford and Loughborough.

An aerial ladder was sent from Birstall fire station, water carriers from Loughborough and Kettering a command support vehicle from Shepshed, a welfare unit from Kibworth and a high volume pump team from Nottinghamshire.

Residents in the Asfordby Hill area have been urged to keep windows and doors closed with large quantities of smoke in the air.

A spokesperson from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: “A building measuring 70 metres by 30 metres is involved in fire.

“The building involved is used for recycling of refrigeration and insulation materials and contains an unknown quantity of gas cylinders

“The incident commander requested further fire crews to assist.”

The fire service Tweeted this morning: “Due to a large smoke plume residents in the area are being urged to keep windows and doors closed at this time.”

Leicestershire Police have sent officers to the site of the blaze to offer support.

More to follow.