FIREFIGHTERS are continuing to battle an industrial blaze for the third consecutive day.

The fire first broke out in a storage unit in Convent Lane, Braintree, at 12.30pm on Friday.

In an update last night, Essex Fire Service said crews would be returning to the scene today to tackle what is left of the flames.

Station Manager Richie Green said: "Firefighters have worked really hard since this incident started more than 30 hours ago and they have done a brilliant job to get is safely under control.

Braintree and Witham Times:

"95% of the fire is now extinguished but, due to the condition of the building, we will continue firefighting operations in the morning.

"Smoke is still coming from the site so please keep your doors and windows closed."

Crews from across Essex have helped tackle the fire, which engulfed the entire building at one point.

Braintree and Witham Times:

Black smoke could be seen coming from the site from several miles away.

Recyclable materials have been removed from the building as part of the fire service operation.

The cause of the blaze is not yet known.