FIREFIGHTERS are tackling a fire involving several thousand tonnes of wood at a recycling plant in Middlesbrough.

Emergency services were called to the blaze at the Jigsaw Wood Recycling Plant in Port Clarence Road, High Clarence, Middlesbrough, at 11.26am.

The smoke can be seen from many miles away.

Police are warning people in High Clarence to remain indoors as smoke from the blaze has spread over the area.

One appliance from Billingham was initially sent to what was reported as a rubbish fire.

Subsequently, a further six appliances from Stockton, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, along with an emergency tender and hydraulic platform, were sent to the blaze.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "Port Clarence residents, especially the very young or elderly or those with existing medical problems are being advised to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.

"There are currently 10 tenders at the scene however the wind speed and direction means large volumes of dense smoke are travelling towards residential areas.

"The smoke is not toxic however it could lead to or exacerbate problems for people in the above categories."

More information will follow.