The massive electrical goods fire in Hitchin’s industrial estate is being tackled by crews from as far away as St Albans.

The Comet: The fire in Cadwell Lane, Hitchin, as seen from MKS Carpentry Ltd off Wilbury Way. Picture: Stacy ToombsThe fire in Cadwell Lane, Hitchin, as seen from MKS Carpentry Ltd off Wilbury Way. Picture: Stacy Toombs (Image: Archant)

Six fire crews from Hitchin, Baldock & Letchworth, Stevenage and St Albans stations are on the scene after getting the call at 9.40am to reports of a fire of electrical goods in the open – with the aerial ladder platform despatched from Stevenage. Police and paramedics are also there.

Police have told the Comet nobody has been injured. Officers have closed the road at its junctions with Woolgrove Road and Wallace Way.

The black smoke can be seen from Letchworth and Stevenage. Emergency personnel have urged people across the Hitchin, Letchworth and Stevenage areas to close all doors and windows.

The Comet: A fire is burning in Hitchin as black smoke rises over the town. Picture: Pippa AkramA fire is burning in Hitchin as black smoke rises over the town. Picture: Pippa Akram (Image: Archant)

A spokesman for the ambulance service said: “There are no casualties at the scene. However, we are advising at this stage for local residents to stay indoors and keep windows closed.”

The Comet is awaiting further updates from the emergency services.

A Great Northern spokesman said: “The fire is not affecting rail services at the moment, but emergency services are keeping us up to date in case any safety concerns arise.”

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A spokeswoman for Luton Airport said the smoke was having “zero impact on flights”.

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The Comet: Plumes of smoke can be seen from Hitchin railway station. Picture: Jeremy Colman via TwitterPlumes of smoke can be seen from Hitchin railway station. Picture: Jeremy Colman via Twitter (Image: Archant)

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The Comet: The huge fire can be seen from Hitchin railway station. Picture: Jeremy Colman via TwitterThe huge fire can be seen from Hitchin railway station. Picture: Jeremy Colman via Twitter (Image: Archant)

The Comet: The Hitchin industrial estate fire. Picture: Ross LopemanThe Hitchin industrial estate fire. Picture: Ross Lopeman (Image: Archant)

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