BREAKING: Explosion heard across Maldon District as huge plume of smoke towers over Essex countryside

Blaze - a huge plume of smoke can be seen from miles away from the incident in Rettendon. (Credit: Essex Is United/Facebook)

RESIDENTS across the Maldon District have reported hearing an explosion, as a huge plume of smoke was seen towering over an Essex village this afternoon (July 24).

The sound was heard in Burnham, Mayland, Tollesbury, South Woodham Ferrers, East Hanningfield and other parts of Essex.

More than 100 firefighters are working to extinguish a fire at a large industrial building in Southend Road, Rettendon.

Rettendon Main Road is closed due to the "serious fire" between the Rettendon Turnpike and South Hanningfield Road, Essex County Council's Traffic Control team has confirmed.

The road is likely to be shut throughout the evening while emergency services attend the scene.

Eyewitnesses say the blaze may be at Atkinson Removals and Storage at Highlands Farm Industrial Estate, off Main Road in Rettendon.

Firefighters and other emergency service personnel are at the scene this evening, attending the ongoing incident.

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging all nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed.

A spokesperson added: "Please avoid the area if you can."

This is a developing story. More to follow.