More than 80 firefighters tackle huge Wolverhampton factory blaze

More than 80 firefighters are tackling a huge factory fire and have warned residents and workers nearby to close their windows and doors.

The blaze broke out at a building near Sunbeam Street’s junction with Upper Villiers Street in Blakenhall, Wolverhampton, shortly after 07:30 GMT on Wednesday.

West Midlands Fire Service said the fire was causing significant disruption and people were urged to avoid the area.

Up to 17 fire engines were at the scene by about 11:00 GMT, the fire service said, as a huge amount of smoke billowed from the blaze.

Upper Villiers Street was closed in both directions between Marston Road and Sunbeam Street.

Smoke from the fire could be seen across the city with a listener to BBC Radio WM stating he could smell and taste the smoke as he stood in the Mander Centre car park, almost a mile (1.6km) away from the fire.

“Smoke is drifting across Wolverhampton city centre which you can both smell and taste in the air,” Steve, from Bushbury, said.

“A very large fire indeed as burning since 07.30 this morning.”

Repeating its warning for people to avoid the area, the fire service said at about 11:00 GMT that it had increased its presence at the scene due to the severity of the blaze.

“As a result, we want to remind everyone to avoid the area at this time. If you live or work in the area, please close your windows and doors,” a spokesperson said.