FIREFIGHTERS were scrambled to a large rubbish fire at a landfill site near Verwood in the early hours.

At 3.11am fire crews were called to the Blue Haze landfill site near the Ebblake Industrial Estate.

Around 35 firefighters from Hampshire and Dorset were involved in tackling the blaze which spread across two acres.

Crews remain at the scene dampening down but the fire has been brought under control.

A spokesman from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The fire involves an area of non-hazardous waste approximately two acres in size and around 35 firefighters have worked to contain the fire and bring it under control.

“The crews have worked with the site operator Veolia to create breaks in the material and prevent any further spread. The cause of the fire is not yet known.”

Large plumes of smoke were seen billowing from the site earlier today.

The smoke is not thought to be dangerous however anyone with concerns should seek medical advice.

The spokesman said: “Though smoke from the fire may be visible in the local area, it is not believed to present any threat to health.

“However, members of the public in the area should be aware of the possible effects of smoke, particularly on the elderly, young and those with existing medical conditions such as asthma.”