Around 100 homes have been evacuated and a 'major incident' has been declared after a garage containing acetylene cylinders caught fire.

Firefighters were called to Holly Road in Weymouth just before 5am this morning. 

The presence of the acetylene cylinders meant a 100m evacuation zone was put in place and homes in the area were evacuated.

The cause of the fire is unknown. 

Approximately 45 firefighters from Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester, Maiden Newton and specialist support vehicles were sent to the scene and have now managed to get the fire under control.

The British Red Cross emergency response team for Dorset was called to assist the fire service.  

A rest centre has been set up by Dorset County Council and the fire service for evacuated residents. 

A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue thanked the Rock Hotel and local guest houses for their support.

The spokesman added: "Firefighters have now got the fire under control using ground monitors and main lines, but will be remaining at the scene for the rest of the morning." 

More to follow.