Firefighters tackling a massive blaze at a Basildon recycling plant are making "steady progress" but expect efforts to continue for "at least" four more days.

The fire in the TLM Environmental Recycling Centre in Hovefields Avenue, Basildon, broke out on Saturday and destroyed surrounding businesses before being brought under control by firefighters. 

Update - A picture at Hovefields Avenue yesterday Update - A picture at Hovefields Avenue yesterday (Image: Essex Fire)

Extinguishing - Firefighters tackling the smouldering Hovefields Avenue fire Extinguishing - Firefighters tackling the smouldering Hovefields Avenue fire (Image: Essex Fire) However, firefighters have warned that the efforts to fully extinguish the still-burning recycling centre will continue for days. 

Firefighters expect work to continue for at least five more days.

Area manager Craig McLellan said: "Steady progress is being made to deconstruct a warehouse around the burning material to allow crews and on-site staff to move and extinguish it.

"Smoke is still being produced, so please keep your doors and windows closed if you live nearby and take extra care on the A127." 

Fire crews are in regular contact with the agencies to monitor the smoke and wind direction, and will let residents and businesses know if their advice changes.