Photos show firefighters battling huge blaze that broke out at mill

By Adam Dutton via SWNS

Almost 100 firefighters tackled a huge blaze which tore through a derelict mill in the early hours of on Monday, March 28, with smoke seen from up to 12 miles away.

Fire broke out at the large empty building in Hermitage Lane, Mansfield, England at 3 A.M. sending plumes of smoke billowing across the town.

Dramatic pictures taken by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service show the building engulfed in flames.

Residents living nearby were warned to keep their doors and windows closed as firefighters battled to extinguish the inferno.

Firefighters have been tackling a "significant" blaze at a derelict mill in Nottinghamshire. (Nottinghamshire FRS via SWNS)

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Up to 20 fire engines from Nottingham, Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, raced to the scene amid fears the building was at risk of collapse.

Two aerial ladder platforms were used as well as fire engines to bring the blaze under control.

People living 12 miles away in Nottingham reported being able to see the huge plumes of smoke drifting over the city shortly after 5 A.M.

Janet Crane, 50, of West Bridgford, said: “I was on an early shift and as I drove into work I could see huge black smoke clouds coming over the city.

“I realized they must be from the fire after hearing a news bulletin. It was a massive blaze. I just hope to God no one was hurt.”

In a tweet at 3.39 A.M., Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "3 A.M. - A number of fire engines are present at a derelict building in Hermitage Lane, Mansfield. Please avoid the area."

At 5.45 A.M., the fire service said: "With 20 fire engines on scene and two Aerial Ladder Platforms the fire on Hermitage Lane, Mansfield, is being brought under control.

Four main hose reel jets used and fire tackled from the outside due to collapsing parts of the building."

The fire was finally brought under control at 6.37 A.M. but the incident caused traffic chaos for rush hour commuters.

Nottinghamshire Police said Hermitage Lane was closed in both directions between the A38 Sutton Road and Hamilton Way, and motorists were asked to plan alternative routes.

Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy said: “Residents are advised to keep all doors and windows shut in the area, at this time there are no plans to evacuate any local residents.

"There is still an impact to the wider community at this moment, particularly around the Hermitage Lane area.

"Fortunately the Robin Hood railway line which runs adjacent to this building has remained open.

"We are working with police to try and get the businesses in the area open."

Police and fire investigators are probing the cause of the blaze.