EIGHT fire crews are tackling a large fire in south Essex.

Firefighters were called to reports of a large plume of smoke in Stambridge at around midday.

Upon arrival, crews reported a large building was alight.

Fire crews from Southend, Leigh, Chelmsford, Rayleigh Weir, Grays, Basildon, Corringham and Rochford are on the scene.

About 60 firefighters are at the scene fighting the fire.

Firefighters are using aerial ladder platforms to pour water on the fire from above.

Crews are also using drones to get a live overview of the fire from the sky.

A spokesman for Essex County Fire and Rescue service said: "The fire involves a number of industrial units which measure a total area of 100m x 50m.

"Firefighters are fighting the fire and protecting the currently unaffected units."

Crews are also urging nearby residents to close their windows and doors as the fire is currently producing a lot of smoke.

This incident is ongoing. More details as we get them.