AN investigation is underway into the cause of a huge Kidderminster fire, with firefighters and police collecting evidence.

The fire at a former timber yard on Park Lane started at around 11.30am yesterday (Saturday September 7).

Firefighters are continuing to return to the scene throughout today (Sunday) to check for potential hot spots as an investigation progresses.

A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Fire Service said: "Firefighters are returning throughout today to inspect the site as a safety precaution until they decide it's done and dusted.

"The investigation into the cause is ongoing with firefighters collecting evidence as they go along and police assisting."

Scores of firefighters from Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, Droitwich, Stourbridge and Haden Cross fought the flames using and aerial platform and pumping water from the nearby canal.

(Image: JH Captures)

By 7pm the response had been "scaled down to 2 pumps continuing to dampen down hotspots."

Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed with motorists and the public advised to avoid the area.

Shopper Sheri Mathers took this picture of the raging fire as people in Marks and Spencer's cafe on Weavers Wharf looked on in shock.

(Image: Sheri Mathers)

She said: "We were in the cafe at M&S just as you started to see smoke coming out in the distance … within 10mins the fire was at its peak and huge flames were visible."