FIRE crews from across north Oxfordshire have been dealing with a huge fire at an industrial estate near Banbury since 05:30am this morning.

Firefighters were called to a fire at the Yew Tree industrial estate, in Bloxham, about 3 miles southwest of Banbury, after residents reported “smoke and sounds of explosions.”

A spokesperson from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Initial crews worked in significant conditions preventing the fire spreading to adjoining units and establishing water supplies, while dealing with a number of cylinders and other hazards involved in the fire.

“Crews from Bampton, Burford and Banbury will be remaining in scene well into the afternoon dealing with the incident. The cause is currently unknown and under investigation.”

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Bloxham residents were told to stay indoors and keep their windows closed as a smoke plume was developing.

Fire crews from Banbury, Deddington, Hook Norton, Charlbury and Kidlington were joined at the scene by water carriers from Wheatley and Kenilworth, a command unit from Slade Park, a hydraulic platform from Rewley Road and a decontamination and environmental protection unit from Didcot.

The fire is now understood to be under control. 

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This story was written by Anna Colivicchi, she joined the team this year and covers health stories for the Oxfordshire papers. 

Get in touch with her by emailing: Anna.colivicchi@newsquest.co.uk

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