SMOKE could be seen across Worcester as firefighters battled a blaze at an industrial unit.

The fire broke out just before midday on June 3 at Aeromet, one of the businesses at the Blackpole Industrial Estate.

Large plumes of black smoke were visible from the centre of Worcester, and video footage from eyewitnesses showed a ball of fire in the roof of the Aeromet unit, sending smoke billowing into the sky.

The fire caused a mass-evacuation of the units on the Cosgrove Close side of the industrial estate, including the Ford dealership and Luxfer Superform.

It is reported that wax tanks at the facility caught fire, causing the evacuation.

Four fire engines, along with a command vehicle, an ambulance and several police cars were at the scene, where members of evacuated staff were standing outside, waiting to hear more news.

Police closed the entrance to the industrial estate, telling members of the public to avoid the area while the fire was still burning.

Aeromet chief executive officer Howard Kimberley said: “Earlier today emergency services attended a fire at our factory in Worcester. We can confirm that no injuries occurred and that the incident is now over.

"We are currently assessing the full extent of the damage; however, we believe that the fire was limited to a small area and was quickly brought under control.

"Whilst there may be some short-term disruption to our operations in Worcester, we do not expect this incident to have a long-term impact and we expect to be able to return to normal operations soon.

"We are working with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fire.

"Aeromet would like to thank all of the emergency services that attended the incident."

While the incident was ongoing, Adam Lucas, from Aeromet, said: "We are not exactly sure what has caused this fire so we will have to wait and see what the fire service says as their investigation is ongoing.

"Fortunately no one has been hurt so we are glad that everyone is safe.

"We are still waiting for the fire service to tell us what has happened exactly, but until then we have told everyone that they can go home for the day."