Blasts heard as crews battle industrial unit fire

Explosions have been heard and a huge plume of smoke can be seen at the scene of a large fire at an industrial unit.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the site on Emery Road in the Brislington area of Bristol at 14:27 BST. Firefighters from nine different stations across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire were at the scene at its height.

The BBC understands the roof of the building on fire has collapsed, although the blaze is now under control.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "We are asking residents and local businesses to keep their windows and doors closed and avoid the area where possible."

James Mizen, who owns a business next door to where the fire broke out, said the fire service was there quickly.

"Within a few minutes, there were several fire engines," he said.

"[There was] lots and lots of black smoke, a couple of explosions.

"Within 10 minutes we were evacuated, and we've been here [on the street] for the last hour-and-a-half."

The fire service confirmed crews would be on Emery Road overnight to monitor hot spots.

"Thankfully, there are no reported casualties," a spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said they were also on the scene to assist.

"A 200m cordon is in place, and officers are currently evacuating the area around warehouse," the spokesperson said.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.