POLICE have this afternoon issued an urgent warning to residents living near the scene of a large fire at a disused factory to stay indoors.

Fire crews and police are at the scene of the blaze on Dalton industrial estate near Thirsk, North Yorkshire. The incident was reported to the emergency services at 2.45pm today.

It is not believed that anyone was in the building at the time of the fire and there have been no reports of any injuries connected to the incident.

The A168 which runs past the industrial estate has been closed in both directions due the amount of smoke. Motorists are being diverted away from the area, with only local access for residents. Householders are being told stay indoors and to keep all windows closed due to the smoke.

Further updates will be issued when available.