Fire at Hermitage industrial site now out, but crews to remain at scene
Eight crews from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) have been at the scene in Sawmill Road since around 10am battling the fire.
The exact location has not yet been confirmed by the emergency services, however it is thought to have occurred in the Pattern Imprinted Concrete Supplies unit.
There have not been any reports of injuries from the South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) or Thames Valley Police.
Emergency services will remain at the scene throughout the afternoon. Road closures which were implemented for safety earlier this morning will remain in place.
Residents have reported hearing up to six explosions since shortly after 9am this morning, and large black clouds – which could be spotted as far away as Didcot – plagued the skies.
Mike and Janice Schofield, who live opposite the industrial estate, said the explosions could be felt through their home.
"We became aware of a problem when a couple of fire engines arrived, I think it was about 9.45am this morning.
"Smoke started billowing out of one of the units on the industrial estate.
"Later, more emergency vehicles arrived and flames could be seen above the buildings and surrounding trees.
"Then a number of explosions occurred.
"Although the building is a hundred yards from our house, the pressure waves from the explosions could be felt in our house."
e heard what we thought was someone banging around up stairs. was visiting her grandparents in Chieveley at the time of the explosions. She said: "W
"My Grandad came in from lighting a bonfire and said that there was a lot of dark smoke coming from Hermitage way, so we went to investigate as many people did."
The cause of the fire has not yet been revealed. For more on this story, keep checking newburytoday.co.uk or pick up a copy of next week’s Newbury Weekly News.
Photographs pictured here were sent by Edward Thurgood and @MrHubba via Twitter.