Huge plumes of smoke seen for miles as 20 tonnes of tyres go up in factory inferno

Firefighters are tackling an enormous fire that has consumed four factories sending thick black plumes of smoke into the air.

Locals are being urged to keep their windows closed to protect them from toxic fumes after the blaze took hold on industrial units on Great Bridge Street, West Bromwich, on Sunday.

An evacuation of nearby homes took place after firefighters were called to the scene at 10.40am.

A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said the blaze had caused a collapse as it engulfed four units.

He said: ‘Due to structural concerns and a partial collapse in one area, a structural engineer has been requested to attend to support us, and we’re working to keep our crews and local residents safe.

‘There have been no injuries or casualties involved in this incident.

‘West Midlands Police have coordinated the evacuation of several homes on Elwell Street as a precaution. We’re working with the police, and the local council, to safely relocate those affected.

‘A number of road closures are still in place, so we remind our communities to continue to avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed if you live nearby.’

Firefighters pumped water from a nearby canal to help tackle the blaze which saw flames lick the insides of the warehouses.