Rushden fire LIVE: Smoke seen for miles after horror industrial estate blaze

Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue have said that they discovered a "large quantity of plastic" on fire aty the recycling facility when they arrived at the scene earlier this morning.

In an update shared on X, they said: "We're currently dealing with a large fire at a recycling warehouse on Sanders Lodge Ind Est in Rushden. Crews were called shortly before 6.30am. On arrival found a fire involving a large quantity of plastic at the premises. Building was evacuated prior to our arrival.

"We currently have 10 fire engines on scene, as well as three turntable ladders, 2 water bowsers & a high-volume pump. We are receiving cross border support from @BedsFire in dealing with this incident, & we anticipate we will be on scene for the rest of the weekend.

"A section of Wellingborough Road near the warehouse is closed, and due to the large smoke plume coming from the blaze, we are asking people nearby to avoid the area and keep their windows and doors closed."

Roads have been closed as a result of the blaze as firefighters remain at the scene. Northamptonshire Police said in a stement on X: "Due to this major fire, the A5001 Wellingborough Road in Rushden is currently closed to allow crews to tackle this fire."

Local residents are still reporting smoke billowing into the air as firefighters remain at the scene.

Firefighters are using water jets to try to stop the spread of the fire.

Locals have been sharing images of the massive plume of smoke seen over the site of the fire.

Locals have been told to avoid the area and to keep windows and doors shut as firefighters attempt to tackle the blaze.

Eight crews were called to deal with the industrial estate blaze this morning. SMoke can be seen as far as as far as Harrold and Sharnbrook in Bedfordshire.

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of this breaking news incident. The Daily Express team will be bringing you live updates after a fire in Rushden.

We will bring you the latest updates as we receive them. More to follow...