FIREFIGHTERS are tackling a blaze at United Downs near Redruth today (Thursday, July 9).

Smoke can be seen as far away as Truro, where residents have posted images of a plume of smoke rising into the sky like a tornado.

Locals on social media estimated that the fire was at United Downs Industrial Estate, which houses numerous businesses including scrapyards. Viki Morrall from Chacewater posted on Facebook: “Loads of fire engines travelling to the area - must be quite large.”

A spokesperson for Cornwall Council said: “Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service is responding to a large fire in United Downs. Residents nearby are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke. Please avoid the area while emergency services deal with the incident.”

We will keep you updated when we have more information.