TEN fire engines and around 70 crew tackled a blaze at a garage in Tachbrook Road, Southall, this afternoon (5).

Most of the single-storey commercial unit, an adjoining storage area, several cars and a container of oil was alight.

Around 30 people were evacuated from neighbouring properties, but there were no reports of any injuries.

Three cylinders were removed from the building before the brigade arrived and firefighters cooled them to avoid the risk of explosion. A 25-metre cordon was put in place as a precaution.

Station Commander Graeme Hunter, who was at the scene, said: "The fire produced heavy smoke, which was visible for miles. We urged residents in the area to close their windows and doors.

"There is some disruption to traffic, so we encourage people to avoid the area while crews continue to work to make the scene safe."

The brigade was called at 11.45am and the fire was under control by 1.50pm. Crews from Southall, Hayes, Feltham and Heathrow attended.

The cause is being investigated.