60 firefighters tackle blaze at scrap yard-residents told to keep windows and doors closed

Some 20 crews from across Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire were at W&S Recycling in Candys Lane, just off the A31 near the Esso garage.

Smoke was drifting across the carriageway leading to warning to motorists to take care in the area. And residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed.

At the height of the blaze, 60 firefighters were at the scene, although it is understood the response is now scaling down.

However, firefighters will remain at the scene of the fire which is believed to have started about 5.30am.

60 Firefighters on scene at the scrap metal fire in Candys Lane #CorfeMullen Crews will remain on scene for most of today. #firefighters #dorset #wimborne pic.twitter.com/2lDzDuK8m1

— Dorset&Wiltshire FRS (@DWFireRescue) July 20, 2019

A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said earlier today: ""The incident in Corfe Mullen is now a well-developed scrap metal fire and causing a large smoke plume drifting across A31 and Wimborne."

"Local residents are advised to keep doors and windows closed. Traffic delays in area."

Good Morning from Blue Watch Control. A busy start to the day taking over from White Watch and continuing with the ongoing recycling fire, just off the A31 near #CorfeMullen. Crews are working hard and making good progress. Further incident updates to follow throughout the day.

— DWFireControl (@DWFireControl) July 20, 2019

One witness said: "You could see huge plumes of smoke for quite a distance.

"I've never seen so many fire engines in all my life. It must have really gone up."

Traffic has now eased in the area and smoke is no longer causing problems.