BREAKING: Shocking Blaze in Elm Park-Flats and Shops Cleared After Explosion.

Shops and nearby flats in Elm Park were evacuated this afternoon after an explosion and fire broke out behind Tadworth Parade.

It is believed the incident started when a pile of rubbish caught alight, sparking an explosion. Residents living above the shops were quickly evacuated, along with people inside the businesses below.

Good Samaritan Bex, who was at the scene, told the Havering Daily: “The fire was blazing and despite over 20 people standing there filming the fire, only one person had actually called the fire brigade. I began evacuating nearby shops and flats, getting people out of their properties and into a safe place until the fire was out.”

Firefighters arrived promptly and worked to bring the flames under control, while police officers closed off the area to protect the public.

The land is privately owned and councillors have been working to get the rubbish cleared.

Local ward councillor, Councillor Mugglestone, also attended the scene to support residents affected by the incident.

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