A SERIOUS fire has broken out at the Eagle Works in Stroud.

The fire initially broke out at Nu-Pro aerospace and defence industries and reports of an explosion soon appeared on social media.

Local residents are being urged to stay inside and to close all windows and doors by emergency services as there are believed to be chemicals in the smoke.

Fire crews arrived on the scene around 8.20pm following reports of thick black smoke billowing from the factory and covering the A419.

A National Police Air Service helicopter has also been operating in the area using thermal imagery to give an overview of the situation.

The road out of Stroud is now closed and emergency services are trying to contain the blaze using fifteen fire appliances.

Motorists and residents are being urged to avoid the area if possible and to monitor any news updates about the situation.