A MASSIVE fire swept through a bakery yesterday - only months after a blaze at the premises forced the temporary closure of the family firm's shops across the region.

The inferno which engulfed Peter's Cathedral Bakers near Durham City spewed out an enormous cloud of smoke which caused traffic chaos on the A1(M) and could be seen up to 20 miles away. Flames leapt up to 30ft in the air.

Police with loudhailers warned nearby residents to remain indoors and keep their windows closed. Firefighters were still battling the blaze late last night.

About 50 staff were evacuated from the premises on the Dragonville Industrial Estate when the fire broke out at about 4.10pm. There were no reports of any casualties.

At its height, up to 80 firefighters in 12 appliances were at the scene.

Ian Doherty, of Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, who was in charge of the crews which tackled the blaze, said: "When we arrived we were confronted by an intense blaze. We immediately tried to surround the fire."

Up to 70 per cent of the single-storey building was reported to be severely damaged. The cause of the fire is not known.

Inspector Frank Rogan, of Durham Police, said: "Even though visibility was not affected on the motorway, we had to impose a 30mph restriction.

"This was because the fire was attracting drivers' attention away from the road, which created obvious concerns. At one stage, southbound traffic had backed up to as far as Chester-le-Street."

Insp Rogan added: "Although there were no noxious or dangerous fumes, police with loudhailers advised residents in the Carrville area on the A690 to remain indoors."

In December, a fire gutted the company's despatch area. The building was filled with smoke forcing the firm to suspend production.