Fire crews damp down blaze site

A huge plume of smoke from the fire in Colchester was seen by motorists

Twenty five firefighters have been at the scene of a large blaze in Essex overnight to damp down and monitor gas cylinders as they cool.

Police cordoned off an area of Hythe in Colchester after the fire in a workshop and scrapyard in Commerce Road.

About 45 firefighters initially tackled the blaze that damaged industrial units and vehicles.

A 57-year-old man from Colchester has been arrested on suspicion of arson, a police spokesman said.

A 200m (550ft) security zone was set up around the site after gas cylinders were found, and traffic was diverted.

Incident commander Dean Stevens said: "Dozens of calls were received at Essex Fire and Rescue's control centre.

"Approximately 45 firefighters have been tackling the blaze which has affected several units and motor vehicles.

"Acetylene cylinders have been involved in the fire.

"Approximately 25 firefighters remained at the incident throughout the night continuing to damp down and monitor the acetylene cylinders.

"The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage."