Buildings evacuated amid huge fire in busy high street in Plaistow

Buildings had to be evacuated amid a huge fire in a busy high street in Plaistow, the London Fire Brigade said.

Emergency services rushed to the fire around 6pm on Saturday night, while dramatic pictures showed long plumes of smoke billowing from blaze.

A car workshop was completely alight - with four cars completely burnt out - as firefighters worked to remove a number of gas cylinders, a spokeswoman for the London Fire Brigade said.

Newham councillor Seyi Akiwowo also spotted the fire while driving nearby.

Seven people were rushed away from nearby buildings, as six fire engines were sent to the scene and a police cordon was set up.

Relief fire fighting crews were dispatched to take over the site around 9.30am on Sunday morning after the fire was brought under control, LFB said.