A huge fire at a former college site has sent thick smoke billowing into the sky and prompted the emergency services to warn locals to keep their windows and doors shut.

About eight fire engines were understood to be at the former St John’s College site off Chilwell Lane in the village of Bramcote, Nottinghamshire.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service warned nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed due to the thick smoke. Stapleford Fire Station posted on Facebook: “We are dealing with a large fire on Chilwell Lane, Bramcote”.

There are unconfirmed reports the site had been a target for vandals in the past.

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