Firefighters battle oil refinery blaze

Firefighters today said they were battling a blaze at an oil refinery.

Firefighters today said they were battling a blaze at an oil refinery. Witnesses described flames reaching 100ft at the site in Coryton, Essex.

Essex Fire Service said they were checking reports of an explosion. They were called to blaze at Petroplus at around 11.30am.

A spokesman said 17 fire engines were at the scene and an emergency planning officer had been alerted.

"Reports of an explosion are unconfirmed but 17 appliances are on the scene," said the spokesman.

"We have reports of flames 100ft high and a major foam attack is in progress."

East of England ambulance service said they were called with reports of a large explosion at the refinery by a passer-by.

A spokesman said: "We sent two ambulance crews, one rapid response car and three officers.

"We are currently working in conjunction with Mobil to conduct a head count.

"The latest reports say there are no casualties as of yet."