Explosions and tower of smoke in garage blaze

CITY CENTRE ROAD IS CORDONED OFF

- MOLLY SEAMAN, SHANNON BROWN, OLIVER ASTLEY

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THE Plymouth skyline was dominated by a tower of toxic smoke yesterday morning after a fire broke out in a Stonehouse commercial garage.

An eyewitness said the fire started at the Auto City Garage, in Belmont Street at around 9.30am.

Loud bangs were heard as a number of oil containers exploded, with oil running down King Street and towards Western Approach.

Road closures were in place and residents were asked to remain indoors and keep windows shut.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were at the scene together with Devon and Cornwall Police.

At least six fire engines were at the location at the height of the response, together with multiple police cars.