A HUGE response by firefighters has been made as reports have come in about a fire believed to be at Cragg Mill, Great Horton Road, Bradford.

It is believed the building is unoccupied. Fire appliances with aerial platforms were used to direct water to the centre of the building.

The fire was reported at 7.05pm with large plumes of black smoke being seen over a wide area.

A cordon was put in place from Southmere Drive, causing traffic congestion. Police say the cordon was lifted at 9.50pm.

Ambulances were at the scene though this may be as a precaution as there are no reports yet of any casualties.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Crews are currently dealing with a large unoccupied building fire in Great Horton area. Eight fire appliances are in attendance with supporting appliances and officers from across the brigade. The building is 50 per cent involved in fire approx. Six large jets, four breathing apparatus and positive pressure ventilation in use.

"Local residents have been advised to stay inside and close windows and doors."

They added that the incident was 'under control' and there was no need to be alarmed.

One onlooker, who witnessed the drama unfolding, said: "It was a crazy hectic scene. 

"The fire engines just kept coming, the police were blocking off Great Horton Road and there was smoke everywhere across this part of the city.

"There were flames shooting out of the factory and it seemed to be getting out of hand until the fire service got the big aerial ladder up above the building and started firing the jets downwards on it. 

"I saw one guy go running up Southmere Drive panicking. He'd just got back from work and was scared it might be his house on fire."