Pile of waste on fire

Update 12 March 11am

Station Manager Howard Midwood said: "While crews were working through the materials there was an explosion. We understand many residents heard this noise but rest assured no-one was hurt and the fire has now been extinguished.

The site will continue to produce smoke as we turn materials over and cool them, so please keep your doors and windows closed if you live nearby and take extra care on the A127.

"We expect to have firefighters on the scene over the next couple of days as work continues."

Update 11 March 4pm 

Station Manager Howard Midwood said: "Crews are making good progress in extinguishing the deep seated fire and controlling the smoke which is in close proximity to the A127.

"We are in a position to scale back the incident but we will remain on scene overnight to monitor the controlled burn."

Firefighters are currently tackling a fire in a yard in Oak Road, Billericay. 

Crews from Billericay, Basildon (two) and Corringham are on scene.

It is a large pile of waste and tyres on fire which is causing a lot of smoke in the area. 

If you live in the nearby area please keep all your windows and doors shut. Smoke is also blowing across the A127 so please take extra care when driving.