EMERGENCY services remain on the scene of a major industrial yard blaze in Distington which started before midnight.
Police evacuated residents around the Main Street area some were taken to Distington Community Centre. No casualties have been reported.
The fire is reported to have taken place at Tyson Burridge's Old Coach Works off Main Street.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue and Police closed off the A595 and B5306 near Distington which were both re-opened earlier this morning.
Cumbria Police said: "The fire was reported at 11.31pm yesterday ( September 15 ). We can reassure residents that there are no reported casualties following the large-scale vehicle fire in an industrial yard at Distington before midnight.
"Cumbria Police and Cumbria Fire and Rescue are advising the following course of action for nearby residents:
"Those who are still in their homes should remain there - but close windows and doors and stay inside to avoid hazards such as smoke inhalation.
Emergency services can reassure residents that there are no reported casualties following the large-scale vehicle fire in an industrial yard at Distington before midnight.
— Cumbria Police (@Cumbriapolice) September 16, 2023
More info here: https://t.co/L0I21HsBJs pic.twitter.com/pYyZPdYUWJ
"Those who have gone to other places as part of earlier evacuations should stay at those places until told otherwise - as to move them back could put them in the way of any potential hazards such as smoke."
"People should stay away from the area. Anyone living in the area should also close windows to prevent smoke inhalation."
"The firefighting operation is expected to take some hours before it is completed."
"Some residents who were evacuated earlier are in a place of safety at Distington Community Centre on Church Road. Others went to friends or relatives."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here