A FIRE at a scrap yard near Clacton is causing problems for train passengers in Essex.

Fire crews were called to the fire in a scrap yard near Weeley Railway Station, Clacton at 11.10am.

Crews from Clacton, Weeley and Frinton were called to the scene of the blaze, which is reported to involve numerous vehicles.

Firefighting operations are being hindered by the close proximity of power lines and the crews had to wait for a Railway Incident Officer to confirm that power lines had been isolated.

Crews used one hose reel and a ground monitor to extinguish the fire.

One male casualty is reported to have refused treatment from ambulance crews at the scene.

Trains services between Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze have been suspended while safety checks are made.

Replacement bus services will be operating until further notice.

Assistant divisional officer Darren Fearn said operations on the site are being scaled back.

He said: “We have the fire under control, although it is not fully extinguished.

“We are waiting for a permit to work close to the railway line and then crews will be able to get close to the lines to put the fire out.

“The fire generated thick black smoke in the area and we have advised neighbouring houses and the local St Andrew’s School to keep windows closed and not to go outside.

“The smoke has died down now as the fire comes under control.

“All credit should go to the first crews arriving at the scene who made a swift request for additional resources and then worked quickly to prevent spread to other vehicles on the site. It gave us a good chance to get things under control quickly.

“Early indications are that the fire was started accidentally.”