UP to 40 firefighters are battling a major blaze at a Southampton factory which makes plastic packaging.

Eight fire engines from across Hampshire have been called to Siva Plastics at Millhouse Business Centre in Hazel Road, Woolston.

Daily Echo:

The premises were evacuated after the blaze broke out in a building housing a printing press.

People in the area are reporting a strong smell of smoke.

Daily Echo:

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) was alerted at 10.10am.

Crews from three Southampton fire stations - St Mary's, Redbridge and Hightown - have been joined by colleagues from Romsey, Eastleigh, Hamble and Hardley.

Firefighters are using an aerial ladder platform, which enables crews to fight the flames from above.

Daily Echo:

A HFRS spokesman said the blaze involved a building which was 50m x 30m.

He added: "The fire is contained inside the building and there is no risk to the public.

"There are no casualties involved but we do have a large presence on the scene working with our partners."

Daily Echo:

A large number of people working at the Siva factory and neighbouring buildings have been evacuated and part of the area has been sealed off.

Fire crews are likely to be on the scene for some time.

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