Massive plume of smoke rises over town as residents told 'close doors and windows'

Black smoke billowed over a town in West Yorkshire after a large fire broke out in a "derelict" building, prompting a major emergency response. Some residents in Halifax have been urged to shut their doors and windows due to the blaze, with 11 firefighter crews on the scene.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said crews from across the region had been sent to the site of the fire at a building at Cinderhill Works in the Siddal area of Halifax. A spokesperson said: "This is believed to be a derelict building, 20x30m, 50% involved in flames. Crews are using large jets including an aerial appliance to tackle the fire.

"Please avoid the area, and all residents in the HX3 area and beyond keep doors and windows shut - there is a large smoke plume."

Smoke could be seen from Halifax town centre, while people from nearby villages also reported seeing a plume.

Local witnesses first reported seeing flames at around 6.45pm on Saturday evening, according to The Mirror.

Firefighters remained on the scene as of around 10pm.

Local councillor Joe Thompson said Calderdale Council was "aware" of the fire.

In a post on social media, he said: "Please stay safe and we hope it can be brought under control swiftly."

The fire in the area followed an earlier blaze at a jewellery shop in the town centre.

Emergency services rushed to Franklyns Jewellers & Goldsmith on Saturday morning following reports the shop and rooms above had been consumed by flames.

Photos reportedly showed the street covered in smoke and a grey plume coming from windows.