What we know so far on Washington Sherwood Van Centre fire

The Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue said they were called to the Sherwood Van Centre on the Crowther Industrial Estate in Washington at 5.53 pm on Tuesday (August 11).

Pictures show thick clouds of black smoke coming from the building while a cordon was put in place.

A spokesperson said: “We can confirm on the evening of Tuesday August 11, eleven fire appliances, including the aerial ladder platform attended a fire at a commercial property.

(Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

“The emergency call was received by our fire control team at 5.53pm and crews from Gateshead, Washington, Rainton Bridge, Marley Park, West Denton and South Shields Community Fire Stations were dispatched to the scene at Crowther Industrial Estate in Washington.

“The incident is ongoing.

“One fire appliance and a welfare vehicle are still in attendance of the scene, and our fire investigator is currently helping to determine the nature of the incident.”

Police officers were also called to the dealership last night.

(Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

A large crowd gathered as firefighters attempted to bring the flames under control.

The fire comes a few weeks after another fire at the same industrial estate earlier this month.

Emergency services were called on July 31, when another building was alight and large plumes of smoke could be seen from miles away.

Five fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene as crews worked to bring the blaze under control.