Homeowners are being urged to close their doors and windows after a large fire broke out in Chard this afternoon (Saturday).

The blaze began at 12.17pm at EMR Chard scrapyard, in Beeching Close.

Six crews are on the scene and it is believed 20 scrap cars are involved in the blaze.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Resuce Service have also warned people to avoid the Furnham area if they are travelling by car ‘until further notice’.

A spokesman for the fire service said: “A call from site among many other calls to fire control stated there was approximately 30 scrap cars involved in the fire.

“All persons are accounted for and crews are at work with two breathing apparatus sets and two hose reel jets to try and prevent escalation.

“All people in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed and anyone driving should avoid the Furnham area of Chard at this time.”

UPDATE: The fire was extinguished at 2.34pm.

The fire service spokesman added: “The fire involved 20 scrap cars in a commercial business in Beeching Road.

“The fire has now been extinguished using eight breathing apparatus, two main jets and one hose reel jet.

“The cause of the fire was accidental.

“All crews have now left the scene and it should be OK for residents to open their windows and doors again.

“There should also be no restrictions on driving in the Furnham area of Chard. Thank you for your cooperation.”