Luton Kingsway recycling centre fire forces evacuation of homes

About 60 people were forced to leave their homes because of a large fire at a recycling centre.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was called at about 07:00 BST to the waste depot in Kingsway, Luton.

Nine appliances and crew were sent to tackle the fire in the building, which is 262ft (80m) by 131ft (40m).

It said eight homes and a block of flats were evacuated while other residents were asked to keep windows closed because of the smoke.

At 17:34 BST, the fire service confirmed it had reduced its presence at the scene and was damping down the embers.

Nearby roads were closed by police.

Luton Borough Council said there would be no bin collections on Saturday because of the fire at its depot.

The site is located close to Kenilworth Road, where Luton Town FC kicked off against Sunderland at 15:00 BST.

A non-league football match due to take place at the Kingsway Recreation Ground, between 61FC and Ampthill Town, was postponed.

Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion please email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk