Emergency services remain at scene of explosion

An investigation is under way after an explosion caused a huge blaze that ripped through a warehouse.

Police, ambulance and firefighters were called to Groundwell Industrial Estate on Crompton Road in Swindon, Wiltshire, at about 19:30 BST on Wednesday.

Nearby buildings were evacuated and people living near the area were told to stay indoors and keep their windows closed. Emergency services confirmed that nobody was hurt in the incident.

A spokesperson from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) said firefighters tackled the blaze overnight and three crews remain at the scene to dampen down hotspots.

Fire crews remained at the scene overnight to tackle the blaze

Jason O'Grady is the head coach and owner of Swindon Martial Arts and Fitness Centre, which is about 200 metres (656ft) from the site of the explosion.

Classes were being taught at the time of the incident and he praised his colleague for acting quickly to evacuate all the staff and students.

Mr O'Grady said: "Everybody was working and then they just heard a big bang.

"All the ceiling tiles lifted off and dust came down and then luckily Dean Barnett was straight up and outside, checking and saw that there was actually quite a crazy incident going on at the time.

"They got everybody evacuated straight away and downstairs as well."

Mr O'Grady said the building will now have to be inspected for safety purposes before staff and students will be allowed back inside.

Emergency services remain on the scene

Many residents wrote on social media that they felt their homes shake in the explosion, while some motorists captured the moment on dashcam.

Jim Wall, branch director of Jackson Fire & Security, said he was putting his twins to bed when he heard the "loud bang".

"I didn't think much of it until I saw messages on WhatsApp about a fire. We were all worried," said Mr Wall, who lives a four-minute drive away from the scene.

"The businesses in the area do have a tight-knit bond. In Swindon, there are lots of pockets of businesses that can be like little communities.

"I'm really glad everyone got out okay last night. I've not gone to the scene myself today, just out of respect."

Jim Robbins, leader of Swindon Borough Council, said it was "very lucky" the explosion happened during the evening, when very few people were there.

He added that the council would work with the residents and businesses affected by the incident to "get them back up and running as quickly as possible".

At the height of the blaze, DWFRS said it had 12 fire engines at the scene, along with other specialist vehicles.

A water tower from an aerial ladder platform and ground monitors were used to extinguish the fire.

Station manager Robbie MacPherson said the prompt response from crews prevented the flames from spreading to adjoining properties.

The building at the site of the explosion was being used by a printing business called ESP Smile

"We still have crews on scene at the moment who are just working to dampen down to ensure any hotspots are dealt with so there isn't any risk of reignition.

"We've also got fire investigation officers who are currently working to try and ascertain the cause of the fire," he added.

The building at the site of the explosion was being used by a printing business called ESP Smile, the BBC confirmed by verifying video footage of the aftermath.

The company has been approached for comment.