FIREFIGHTERS remain at the scene of the major scrap tyre fire near Bradford city centre.

They were called to reports of a blaze off Upper Castle Street, in East Bowling, just after 3am on Monday morning.

Almost 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines rushed to the scene and tackled huge flames emanating from the mass of tyres.

Other emergency services were also called to the fire, which turned out to be at a go-kart track.

Roads, schools and businesses have had to close as a result. 

City Hall just visible through the thick pall of smoke

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Earlier today, West Yorkshire Police revealed they had arrested a 59-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman in North Yorkshire in connection with the fire.

Both individuals are from Harrogate. They were detained on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson.

Both suspects were interviewed by police last night and have been released on bail. Enquiries remain ongoing.

In an update this evening, WYFRS said: "We currently have six fire engines, two aerial ladder and one foam appliance at the scene.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

"Work has continued throughout today with our crews using water and foam to tackle the fire. Our partners have also remained on the scene, including Bradford Council who provided machinery to help clear some of the site so that we could get closer to the seat of the fire.

"Thank you to everyone, including businesses in the community, for your patience and support while we continue to tackle this fire."

The following road closures are currently in place:

Parma Street - junction Spring Mill Street

Ripley Street - junction Spring Mill Street

Ripley Street - junction Upper Castle Street

Mill Lane - junction Manchester Road

Mill Lane - junction Ripley Street

Ripley Street - junction Ripley Road

Nelson Street - junction Caledonia Street

Fitzwilliam Street - junction Mill Lane

Bradford Council has said: "Residents in areas affected by the smoke should stay indoors, keep their doors and windows closed.

"If you must go outside, to minimise your exposure, limit the amount of time you spend outside in the smoke. People with asthma who may be in the vicinity of the fire should carry their inhaler.

"Some of the substances present in smoke can irritate the lining of the nose, throat and lungs, the skin and the eyes. Symptoms may include coughing and wheezing, sore throat, feeling short of breath, runny nose or eyes or chest pain. In general, exposure to smoke is more likely to affect people who have existing breathing problems, lung or heart conditions.

"The very young and very old, smokers and people with flu or flu-like illnesses may also be at greater risk after exposure to smoke from fires. People who are generally fit and well are unlikely to experience long-term health problems from temporary exposure to smoke from a fire.

"If symptoms persist seek medical advice by calling NHS 111 or by contacting your General Practitioner (GP). If a medical consultant is already treating an existing health condition, discuss your concerns and symptoms with them. In the case of an emergency call 999."