A large fire broke out on the Burrell Way industrial estate in Thetford at a commercial paint shop this afternoon.

A 150 metre cordon has been put in place and businesses evacuated.

Around 10 fire engines were called to the scene shortly before 4pm.

Appliances from Thetford, Brandon, Methwold, Bury, Attleborough, Mildenhall, Earlham, Wymondham, Sprowston and Hethersett are currently at the scene.

Police are also assisting the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.

Officers were called at around 3.50pm to reports of a fire at a factory on Burrell Way.

Plumes of smoke poured out of the roof and flames could be seen while the blaze was tackled.

Neighbouring businesses, including KnowHow and Screwfix, were also evacuated.

Andy Heginbotham, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager, said the building was 60m by 80m with a “20pc significant fire” taking hold.

He added the fire had not affected the businesses main building and there were no casualties.

Marshall Cooke supplies waste disposal equipment

Dennis Marshall, owner of Marshall Cooke, said his 18 staff had all been accounted for, but bemoaned what he said was a slow response from the fire crews.

“I had to call 999 three times for them to arrive, and it felt like ages.

“When it started it was a small fire, but by the time they got here it was small. Then they had trouble getting water.

“You pay for what you think is a high quality service and in this case I feel like it just wasn’t,” he said.

Mr Heginbotham, said in response that there had been no delays in getting to the fire, and that the Thetford fire crew had been on the A11 when the call came in and proceeded to Burrell Way immediately.

Mr Marshall added that the fire should have a minimal impact on his business, with the main building having a separate power supply. He said a temporary roof would be put on the paintshop if necessary.

He said the last fire to take place on the site took place in around 2000.