Chemical alert at factory fire

More than 40 firefighters from across Worcestershire were called to tackle a severe blaze at a Kidderminster factory.

Eight fire engines, a command unit and environmental protection units were all called to Hard Anodising at Firs Industrial Estate, based in Oldington Lane, at around 8am today.

Police and ambulance crews were also dispatched to the scene and roads had to be shut.

At the height of the blaze, thick smoke could be seen billowing out from the single-storey factory, which specialises in metal finishing.

Environmental protection units were asked to attend as the firm uses chemicals in its processes.

Fire crews used an aerial ladder and platform to bring the blaze under control.

Investigations into the cause of the fire were expected to continue throughout today.

Fire crews said no-one was believed to have been in the factory building at the time of the fire and no-one was hurt.

Firefighters from Kidderminster, Stourport, Droitwich, Bromsgrove and Upton were among those sent to the scene.

Police closed off Oldington Lane at its junction with Stourport Road to all traffic.

Workers at other businesses on the estate were also stopped from entering until the blaze had been brought under control. They were allowed on to the estate at around 9.40am.

They were forced to leave their cars parked along Stourport Road.

Ian Bytheway, aged 42, who works at neighbouring Wilson's Transport said: "We were told it would be for the best to stay outside of our building until the fire was out.

"It was a surprise to turn up to see the emergency services here and to see the smoke from the factory."