Leeds fire: Urgent warning to residents to close doors and windows after huge blaze erupts in UK city

Nearby residents, including families, have been warned to keep doors and windows closed as crews tackle the flames. The blaze erupted at a scrapyard in Knowsthorpe Road. Cross Green.

Firefighters rushed there just after midnight, but remain present in challenging conditions. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said eight fire engines and one aerial ladder platform are present.

The fire continues to rage this morning, more than seven hours after it started. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said in a statement at 7.30am: "Our response overnight has dropped down to four crews in attendance.

"They will be replaced with relief crews shortly who then will remain at the site today to continue to tackle the fire and check for further hotspots."

A large plume of smoke is affecting the surrounding area, and all residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed.

People are also being urged to avoid the area while emergency crews continue their work. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.