PEOPLE are being advised to keep their windows closed to large amounts of smoke and possible hazardous materials from a large fire.
Emergency services are currently dealing with ‘large incident’ in the Eldon area of Bishop Auckland.
It is understood around 500 tonnes of compressed waste is alight at the old Eldon brickworks site.
A spokesman for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently dealing with a large incident in the Eldon Area of Bishop Auckland.
“There are seven appliances, an aerial ladder platform, a bulk water tanker and a number of senior officers in attendance.
More pictures and video from the scene
“Members of the public in the vicinity are advised to keep their doors and windows closed due to large amounts of smoke and possible hazardous materials being involved.”
The site is located just north of Main Road at the eastern edge of the village but the smoke can be seen from miles around the area.
Smoke can be seen from miles away
Bishop Auckland resident Kevin Longstaff said: "I live in Bishop, which is two miles from there and I could see it.
"I could hear the popping noise even from here.
"You can smell the smoke."
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