SCOTLAND: LARGE FIRE BREAKS OUT AT KILWINNING BATTERY RECYCLING PLANT

Fire crews are battling a huge blaze in Kilwinning this morning.

Terrified residents were told to evacuate their homes after the blaze started at the Fenix Battery Recycling plant in the Ayrshire town in the early hours. Some locals had to flee their homes while others were told to stay indoors and close their windows as the flames ripped through the factory.

Shocking footage posted on social media showed the building engulfed in flames with a huge plume of thick smoke seen billowing up into the air. Scared locals reported hearing explosions as the blaze took hold.

One resident posted on Facebook: "Anyone in the Pennyburn area (new builds and surrounding) evacuate the area ASAP as the fire is becoming uncontrollable.

"I live right next to it and held off after fire brigade had chapped my door and told me to close all vents etc or evacuate if possible. Once I heard explosions I made the decision to leave.

"Even if the fire doesn’t spread the toxic smoke is not worth staying in the area. Get out if you can."

In a later post, another resident said: "It’s still cordoned off and bangs are still quite loud but I think the fire's getting under control.

"My mum asked the police and they said it could be tomorrow morning before she’s allowed in and possibly need health and safety checks because of the fumes but she directly faces it so might depend on how far in you are."

Fire crews were still battling the blaze on Tuesday morning.