FIRE crews are at the scene of a large tyre blaze at Cockfield, County Durham.

The call was received at 12.53pm and on arrival at Little Gordon Farm, Lands Bank, Cockfield crews found a large quantity of tractor tyres well alight. 

"Eight fire appliances, one incident command support unit, one environmental protection unit, the welfare vehicle and one foam tender have been deployed to the fire," said a Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue spokesman.
"A total of 38 firefighters and five officers are at the scene. Officers from the Environment Agency have asked to attend and other emergency services and partner agencies have been informed.

"For safety reasons, people in the vicinity of the farm have been advised to close windows and doors to prevent smoke entering their property.

"The service strongly urges people to ensure they have working smoke alarms fitted in their homes and businesses and not to forget to encourage friends, relatives or neighbours to ensure they have working smoke alarms."

Smoke can seen from as far away as Darlington and Middlesbrough.

Flames and thick black smoke is eminating from some of the buildings.

As firemen fought the flames, a spokesman tweeted: "Crews have worked hard to save the Little Gordon Farm house. Challenge to  reach the water supply in this v.rural location but successful."

A cordon is in place and people are stopping cars to watch the proceedings from a half-a-mile away, according to our reporter at the scene.

Stuart Errington, deputy chief fire officer for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, is at the scene of the fire. He said: “Crews and control staff have done a fantastic job. The crews have worked hard to save the farm house from the fire.

"Their response was made very challenging due to water supplies in this very rural location, which is a long way from the hydrant. The crews have worked hard to overcome this initial difficulty and have worked quickly and effectively to bring this large fire under control.”

  • Can you see the blaze? Tell us your experience by emailing newsdesk@nne.co.uk