A MAJOR fire in Leominster is now under control.

Firefighters are scaling down their operations at the blaze which engulfed Old Fields Garage in Green Lane.

The surrounding area has been sealed off and neighbouring homes have been evacuated.

Sam Jones, press officer for the fire service, said nine fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were at the blaze.

Firefighters also used a curtain jet of water to keep gas cylinders cool.

Alec Mackie, for the fire service, said there had been no reports of explosions but an environmental protection team had attended the scene.

John Burnett, press officer for Herefordshire Council, said the A44 has been closed and the sports centre in Bridge Street opened for residents.

He said there are no reports of injuries and the evacuation has taken place because of smoke and the presence of gas cylinders.

Between 20 or 30 houses in the Green Lane area have been evacuated which could amount to around 100 people.

"We are ready to receive people and they might be there over night," said Mr Burnett.

Diversions will currently remain in place and firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for the next 24 hours.