FIREFIGHTERS are still on the scene of a major fire which broke out at a recycling plant last night.

Thick, black smoke is still billowing from the scene of the fire at Greenology Plastic Recycling Centre, at Liverton Mines, near Saltburn.

Emergency services were called to the blaze at the plant, on Lantsbery Drive, at 9.47pm last night. 

Cleveland Fire Brigade sent eight appliances from Coulby Newham, Grangetown, Guisborough, Loftus, Middlesbrough, Redcar, Saltburn and Skelton to the scene.

A spokesperson said it was a large fire involving compacted plastic, and firefighters were using a ground monitor and water relay to tackle the flames.

Residents nearby were asked to keep windows and doors closed to prevent breathing in smoke from the burning plastic.

The Northern Echo:

Flames from the recycling plant fire light the sky orange overnight Picture: KERRY LOUISE WALKER

Crews remain at the scene this morning, and residents and workers in Cleveland report still being able to see flames and thick black smoke for miles around.

Police are assisting firefighters.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "Officers do not believe there is a risk to the public but would advise people living in the surrounding area to keep their windows and doors closed whilst the fire is being dealt with."

A joint investigation with Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

Firefighters have thanked local businesses Stonehouse Bakery and The Water Wheel Inn for providing support and refreshments to crews tackling the fire.

Officers are appealing to anyone with information regarding this incident to contact police on 101 quoting 052799.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at: crimestoppers-uk.org