Huge fire breaks out sending massive plumes of black smoke into the air as residents told stay AWAY

A HUGE fire has broken out this morning, sending massive plumes of black smoke into the air - as residents are told to stay away.

The industrial blaze, in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, began in the early hours, with firefighters deployed to the scene at around 2.30am.

Videos of the fire hit social media just after 5am, showing the enormous black plumes surrounding nearby houses.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has since confirmed it broke out at an industrial recycling plant.

It added that six fire engines and two aerial ladder platforms were sent to the scene, where crews discovered a large pile of scrap metal on fire.

Mark Barber, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: “Crews have been working since before 3am this morning to contain a large fire at a metal recycling centre on Wallace Way, Hitchin.

"People at properties in the vicinity should keep doors and windows closed due to the smoke and we are working closely with Hertfordshire County Council Public Health, the Environment Agency and UKHSA to ensure health and environmental risks are carefully monitored and managed.

"Some roads in the area may be closed to ensure public safety and give our firefighters space to work, please check your journey before you travel.

"I'd like to thank our firefighters for their hard work, colleagues from Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service for their support, and the public for their patience."

An earlier statement from the force warned people to stay away from the area.

Hertfordshire County Council said: "Some roads in Hitchin are closed to allow our fire and rescue service to tackle a fire on the industrial estate.

"Please avoid the area and check Herts Highways for updates on road closures."

The road closure remains in place at this time - while trains from London to Hitchin appear to only be minorly delayed.