RESIDENTS described seeing “small explosions” and “smelling chemicals in their home” as multiple fire engines were called to tackle a huge industrial unit fire in Shoebury.

Essex Fire was called to an industrial recycling yard in Vanguard Way on Good Friday.

Crews from Southend, Leigh and Rochford tackled the flames for just shy of five hours, with police also called to the scene to assist.

A spokesman for the fire service said the cause was recorded as unknown.

Nick Allen, 59, recalled when he was alerted to the incident.

Echo: Nick Allen travelled to the industrial unit when he saw the smoke from a distanceNick Allen travelled to the industrial unit when he saw the smoke from a distance (Image: Nick Allen)

“We saw the smoke from our back garden in Thorpe Bay”, he said.

“We popped out and followed the smoke to the industrial estate.

“Numerous fire engines were already at the scene, and more kept coming. I think when we left there were around five or six engines at the scene.

“Every so often there would be a small explosion, sparks would fly, and it was at this point a police officer started ushering people back.

“The fire service seemed to get it under control fairly quickly.

Get more great stories like this delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our morning newsletter - don't miss out!

“Southend has had its fair share of large fires, the pier, the bowling alley, so it wasn’t too big.

“All emergency services were very quick to respond.”

Lydia White, who also lives nearby to the site, said she “first thought it was the train tracks on fire”.

Echo: Lydia White recalled seeing the smoke from her house window in ShoeburyLydia White recalled seeing the smoke from her house window in Shoebury (Image: Lydia White)

She added: “I live in a flat very near to the fire and I could see it from my window, and I have never seen anything on this scale.

“I’ve lived in Shoebury most of my life it’s quite rare, so when I heard the sirens a few times I looked out my window and saw all the smoke and then saw three more fire engines whizz down and about three police cars speed down too.

“I stood at my window watching for a little while.

“I could hear pops and bangs so I stayed indoors and kept my windows and doors shut but there still was a chemically smell coming from the site of the fire which I think came through the air vents in my flat.

“I was a little worried as the fire is close to where the gas site is and I was glad the fire brigade got it under control.”