London fire latest as residents are told 'keep doors and windows shut'

A huge fire has erupted at a vehicle yard on Manor Road in Erith, with ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters rushing to the scene in the early hours of the morning.

Thick clouds of smoke are pouring into the air as a number of vehicles remain alight, prompting urgent health warnings for local residents.

In a dramatic overnight operation, London Fire Brigade revealed:

"A large amount of smoke is being produced by the fire, and residents in the local area are advised to keep doors and windows shut where possible as crews respond."

The flames, described as intense and widespread, sparked a flood of emergency calls

"The Brigade received the first of over 20 calls reporting the fire at 0407," officials said.

Crews from Plumstead, Erith, Bexley and surrounding fire stations raced to the blaze, with reinforcements arriving from Kent Fire and Rescue Service to assist the ongoing battle.

Firefighters have deployed specialist equipment to bolster their efforts:

"Firefighters have deployed a Hose Layer and High Volume Pump as part of our response, to increase the amount of water available for firefighting operations."

Despite their best efforts, the cause of the fire remains unknown at this stage, and investigators are expected to launch a full inquiry once the site is declared safe.

This is a developing story — check back for updates as we bring you the latest from the scene.