ELEVEN fire crews are tonight battling searing heat, flames and thick black smoke as 200 cars are ablaze in Rochford.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service say the fire involved about 200 vehicles at a scrap yard in Purdeys Way, Rochford. 

Video from Essex Fire and Rescue Service shows cars being engufled by fierce flames as multiple crews fight to contain the fire.

Firefighters created a fire break to stop the fire spreading to the remaining cars. There is approximately 2000 cars at the site, Essex fire service said.

In an update at 10.45pm, Essex Fire and Rescue Service said there were about 60 firefighters at the scene tacking the fire.

Echo: Billowing smoke could be seen coming from the fire in Purdeys Way Rochford. Pic: Sophie KirkhamBillowing smoke could be seen coming from the fire in Purdeys Way Rochford. Pic: Sophie Kirkham (Image: Sophie Kirkham)

Nearby residents are being advised to close their windows.

The cars are stacked in rows of three storeys, an Essex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said.

At 23:22, the fire service said firefighters have the fire contained.

Plumes of smoke could be seen from Southend tonight. 

Essex Fire and Rescue Service said crews from across south Essex have been drafted in to fight the blaze. 

This is a developing story. More to follow.