A large fire has been tackled by multiple crews of firefighters at a metal recycling plant in Hitchin.

The blaze began at around 8.43pm last night (Monday, December 11) at Bridge Works in Cadwell Lane, Hitchin.

Five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene, where a large quantity of recycling waste was "well alight".

At the time, residents were asked to avoid the area and those who live nearby were advised to keep their windows and doors closed.

"Steady progress" was made throughout the night and into this morning, with crews working "extremely hard tackling the fire".

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Smoke was affecting the nearby railway line and staff on the site had created a fire break using on-site machinery to help tackle the blaze.

The fire was largely extinguished by 9am this morning (Tuesday, December 12), but crews remained to dampen down and tackle hot spots.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service said: "Firefighters established a water supply and tackled the fire.

"Firefighters made steady progress throughout the night, and the fire was largely out by 9am this morning. 

"There are no reports of any injuries.

"The site has been handed back to the operators, although firefighters will be carrying out a re-inspection this afternoon to ensure there are no remaining concerns."