A HUGE fire is ripping through a factory in Leominster sending clouds of potentially toxic smoke across the town.

More than 100 residents have been evacuated and others are being told to stay indoors following ablaze at Skymark Packaging in Southern Avenue.

Much of Leominster is cut-off this morning while a 200 metre cordon has been put in place.

Around 80 firefighters from several counties are dealing with the blaze, which started around 3.30am this morning.

Other emergency services are on standby due to the risk of explosion, as the factory houses chemicals, solvents and LPG.

“Firefighters are dealing with the blaze from a distance because of the risk of explosion,” said Samantha Jones, fire service press officer.

“It’s still quite severe and we’ve got 15 fire engines at the scene. People have also been told to close their windows and doors.”

No casualties have been reported, but Ambulance Service spokesperson, Murray McGregor, said a number of people - including an elderly couple in wheelchairs - had been moved to the leisure centre.

Herefordshire Council has closed several roads in south Leominster, while train services and bus services have also been suspended.

More details to follow and full story and pictures in this week's Hereford Times.