AN empty factory in Wordsley has been damaged by a blaze which caused major disruption in the area.

The old Stuart Crystal unit on Camp Hill was the scene of a severe fire which affected 100 per cent of the building during an incident which began at around 5.40pm yesterday (Thursday May 12).

West Midlands Fire Service dispatched a total of eight fire engines and three ariel platforms to the scene.

The main A491 route to Kingswinford and other roads in the area were closed as officers tackled the blaze in the unit which measures 40m by 30m.

Eyewitness Kevin Mobberley said: “I saw smoke and at first thought it was just someone burning rubbish but then it got thick and black and we couldn’t see across the road.

“We could only just make out the shops and later on we could see flames coming out of the building.”

One fire crew was at the scene this morning (Friday) to ensure public safety while the structure is examined.