FIREFIGHTERS are battling a massive blaze at a scrap yard.
Eight fire engines have been sent to Shepherds Scrap Metal yard on Albion Row in Byker, Newcastle.
Police have warned nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed as thick, black smoke fills the air.
The huge column of black smoke can be seen from miles around the city, and is billowing over the height of the Byker Wall.
Northumbria Police said Leighton Street and Byker Bank between Northumberland Terrace and Ouseburn Road has been closed.
A spokeswoman for the force said they were alerted to the incident at 12.25pm today.
Around 70 firefighters are tackling the blaze at the former scrapyard in Byker.
There are now 14 fire engines at the scene, including two specialist aerial ladder platforms.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service is advising residents to keep their doors and windows shut as a precaution.
Northumbria Police said some residents in Northumberland Terrace were being evacuated from their homes and additional streets have been closed in the area -Albion Row, Ford Street and Lime Street.
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