Dozens of firefighters have been tackling a large fire at an abandoned Darlington building, with plumes of thick black seen across the town this evening. 

At its height, five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were dealing with the blaze at the premises on  Valley Street North, which broke out at about 5.40pm.

The smoke could be seen from several miles away and people were urged to stay away, as roads around the area were cordoned off.

Group Manager Dan Wootton of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) said officers were expecting to be at the scene "for some time".

He added:“We ask that businesses and properties in the area keep their doors and windows closed due to the level of smoke and urge people to stay away from the area.

“Motorists who have to travel near the area should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed."

 

(Image: Stuarat Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

 

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

 

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Stuart Boulton)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)

(Image: Tom Burgess)


 

(Image: Tom Burgess)