DOZENS of firefighters tackled a major fire in a scrap yard in Sunderland on Monday evening with a large plume of smoke visible from miles around.

A spokesperson for the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said emergency services were alerted to the fire at the former Alex Smiles waste management plant, in Deptford Terrace, at about 5.50pm on Monday.

Nine pumps and three specialist units were sent to the scene with about 48 firefighters dealing with the fire. 

Three senior officers were also in attendance during the evening but the has now been scaled down.

The fire service said on Tuesday morning: "There are now three engines and 12 firefighters on site, with two aerial ladder platforms and a high volume pump still in use.

"Please continue to keep doors and windows closed and avoid the area if possible."