RESIDENTS have been urged to keep their windows closed due to a fire affected a number of containers at an industrial site.

Four crews from Basildon, Billericay and Wickford have been at the scene of the fire, in Oak Lane, Billericay, since about 8.20pm this evening.

A blaze is affecting a number of containers at the industrial site.

A spokesman for Essex Fire Service said: "Firefighters from Basildon, Billericay and Wickford are working hard to get the fire under control.

"The units mostly contain vehicle parts and gas cylinders.

"A water bowser - a vehicle used to supply water at incidents - from Corringham Fire Station is also in attendance.

"The fire is creating a lot of thick smoke so residents in the area are advised to keep their doors and windows closed."

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Drivers are advised to take extra care on the A127, which is located nearby, and not slow down to look at the blaze. 

The spokesman added: "We will bring you an update as soon as it is available."