A huge forest fire has broken out in Northumberland.
Crews are tackling a major blaze north of Haydon Bridge, about six miles west of Hexham.
Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service confirmed seven engines have been sent and reinforcements called in from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
People are being told to stay away from the area and residents living nearby are advised to close doors and window.
The origin and full scale of the fire are not yet known.
Pictures from the scene on social media showed thick clouds of smoke engulfing the area.
Another showed flames burning along the ridge of a hill covered in trees.
A spokesperson for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire started in a plantation between Haydon Bridge and the Stanegate Road, North of Haydon Bridge.
"Seven appliances are in attendance - six from Northumberland and one supporting from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
"The fire is being driven by strong easterly winds and has cleared a deep plantation and is now crossing grassland.
"Crews are controlling the sides of the fire using water from a nearby pond and are working to stop it when it at a nearby road. "
"We ask people to keep away from the area, and if they live downwind from the fire should keep doors and windows closed. "
This is a breaking incident - if you have witnessed the fire or have pictures or video of the fire, please email ec.news@ncjmedia.co.uk
ChronicleLive has contacted Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service for more information on this incident.
