Fuel tanker fire, Sadlers Farm roundabout

Update 7:40pm

Crews used foam to tackle the blaze and have confirmed the fire is now out. 

The road, nearby street lights and traffic signals have suffered significant damage as a result of the fire. The road will remain closed while urgent repair works take place and the vehicle is removed from the roadway.

Area Director, Neil Fenwick, said "The fire has now been extinguished but we'll remain at the scene as long as necessary to monitor the situation and make sure the fire remains out. 

"I'd like to thank the public for being supportive while our crews worked to put the fire out this evening. I'd also like to thank Essex Police and East of England Ambulance Service for their cooperation at the scene. Incidents of this nature really demonstrate the importance of close working relationships between emergency services.

"I'd also like to praise our fantastic control team, who have taken more than 60 calls relating to the fuel fire alone. They're the first port of call when the public call 999 and they've worked tirelessly this evening to keep Essex safe."

Crews were called to reports of a vehicle fire involving a fuel tanker on Sadlers Farm roundabout in Benfleet.

On arrival, firefighters confirmed a fuel tanker carrying 38,000 litres of aviation fuel was 100% alight.

The road has been closed as a precaution while firefighters work to extinguish the fire, We anticipate the road will eb closed for some time, so we're urging residents to avoid the area and to find an alternative route where possible.

There is a large amount of smoke in the area surrounding the incident, and those living locally are reminded to keep windows and doors closed.

This is an on-going incident and further updates will be provided shortly.