Incident Commander Michael Sharman, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, says fire at Briggs Metals Ltd, Great North Road, continues to burn

Firefighters are still attempting to extinguish a fire at a scrapyard in Newark.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service have been battling a blaze at Briggs Metals Ltd, Great North Road, since 11.15am.

What was once a thick pall of black smoke, is now a white cloud, which can still be seen for miles.

More than 40 firefighters from 12 appliances are at the scene, and approximately 1,000 tonnes of metal is involved in the ongoing fire.

A number of specialist appliances including a High Volume Pump, a Water Bowser and one of the Service’s Aerial Ladder Platforms are in use at the scene, and firefighters are continuing to work alongside partner agencies while the incident remains ongoing.

Incident Commander Michael Sharman, who is joined at the scene by East Midlands Ambulance Service, said the fire services are still attempting to put out the fire.

“We have 12 fire engines dealing with the fire at present, and I would like to thank our neighbouring fire and rescue services for their assistance," said Mr Sharman.

“We are continuing to work with Nottinghamshire Police, The Environment Agency, East Midlands Ambulance Service and Public Health England to minimise the disruption to motorists and nearby residents, and we thank you for your patience while we deal with the incident.

“Anyone living or working nearby should keep doors and windows closed at this time, and we will continue to update our social media channels with information."

A Public Health England East Midlands spokesperson, said: “Residents in areas affected by the smoke should stay indoors, keep their doors and windows closed, and tune in to the local radio station for advice and information.

“Motorists who have to travel through the smoke should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.

“Concentrations of substances in smoke are often below those which pose an immediate risk to health, but may still result in discomfort or temporary health effects such as coughing or a tight chest.

"These symptoms usually disappear very soon and do not lead to any long-term health problems.

"People with asthma should carry their inhaler, and if you have any concerns about your respiratory health please seek medical advice.

“Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is on-site dealing with the fire and the other agencies involved will continue to monitor the situation and issue advice to the public, businesses and organisations affected as necessary.”

AA Roadwatch shows slow moving and queuing traffic on both the A46 bypass and Lincoln Road, Newark.

Kelham Road (A617) is also showing signs of queuing traffic.

Great North Road remains closed.