EMERGENCY services have rushed to a blaze in a paint and welding shop this morning.

A total of 48 firefighters were called to an area of Anchorage Park in Portsmouth at 8.18am today following reports of an industrial fire.

Motorists and residents are being urged to avoid the area.

Crews from Cosham, Southsea, Havant, Fareham, Emsworth, Portchester, Eastleigh and Romsey fire station are at the scene.

A spokesperson from Hampshire Fire and Rescue said: "Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service received a call at 8.18am this morning reporting a fire in Portsmouth.   

"The fire is located in a building used as a paint and welding shop, approximately 8x20m in Anchorage Park in Portsmouth.

"There are currently 48 firefighters at the scene with specialised vehicles and appliances from Cosham, Southsea, Havant, Fareham, Emsworth, Portchester,

Eastleigh and Romsey fire station in attendance."

The incident is ongoing.

More to follow...