FIREFIGHTERS tackled a huge blaze at a North-East timber yard. 

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service was called to Jewson at Stargate roundabout in Ryton just before 7pm on September 15.

Black smoke billowed out of the woodyard across the A695, which runs between Blaydon and Hexham, and could be seen for miles around.

Eyewitness Peter Driver, from Greenside, said: "The thick smoke could be seen from miles away.

"We first saw it from West Denton while on our way home to Greenside, Ryton.

"The smoke was thick and smelled really bad, like there was multiple items on fire.

"There were a few bangs and cracks, it sounded like there were a few small explosions coming from the roaring fire.

"The smoke was intermittently covering the bypass and drivers were finding it difficult to get through the smoke."

A Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson told the Courant: "Last night (Thursday, September 15) just before 7pm, we received a call about a fire at an industrial estate in Ryton.

"Three appliances, one from Swalwell and two from West Denton Community Fire Stations, were on the scene in a matter of minutes to begin bringing the blaze under control.

"Upon arrival, it was clear that a number of vehicles were on fire in the garage however thankfully, no one was injured.

"The fire was extinguished and our crews left the scene at 8:04pm.

"At this stage, it is not believed to have been started deliberately."