100 firefighters tackle major blaze at plastics factory

Over 100 firefighters tackled a blaze at a plastics factory on Tyseley Industrial Estate yesterday evening, with smoke seen across large parts of Birmingham.

The fire at a site on Seeleys Road was reported at around 4.50pm yesterday after West Midlands Fire Service received multiple calls from the public.

At its height, 20 fire engines were at the scene, together with hydraulic aerial platforms and a specialist high-volume water pumping unit.

Speaking last night, assistant chief fire officer Sarah Warnes, the incident commander, said: “This has been a significant incident, to which our crews have responded safely, effectively and assertively.

“In spite of extremely hot and arduous conditions, they have drawn on their skills and professionalism to ensure that the fire has been contained to the one site, saving nearby premises from harm.

“As well as twenty fire crews we have also had a number of specialist resources at the scene, including our hazardous materials specialists and a high–volume water pumping team.

“I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of our partners from many other agencies, with whom we will be working tirelessly throughout the night to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”