Walthamstow car workshop blaze tackled by 70 firefighters Published duration 2 February

image copyright @CuriosE17 image caption The fire, at the garage in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, broke out shortly before 17:00 GMT

About 70 firefighters have tackled a blaze at a car workshop in east London.

The fire, at the garage in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, spread through the ground, first floor, roof and garages of the building, near the Ye Olde Rose and Crown pub.

London Fire Brigade said the cause of the fire, which broke out shortly before 17:00 GMT, was not yet known.

Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke from miles away and people in the area said they could smell burning plastic.

There were no reports of any injuries but the fire service said it was investigating.

Some nearby roads were shut.

Station commander Jon Holt, who was at the scene, said: "Crews worked hard to protect the surrounding shops and businesses and stop the fire spreading."

Walthamstow's Labour MP Stella Creasy tweeted during the height of the fire, urging people not to cross the police cordons in the area to film.

She later said thanked London Fire Brigade's crews, saying "your whole team has been extraordinary and walthamstow greatly appreciates it".

Crews in 10 fire engines from Walthamstow, Leyton, Tottenham, Woodford and Homerton attended the blaze.