FIFTEEN scrap cars caught fire in a breakers yard last night. 

Fire service chiefs said the vehicles were being stored in Autobreak, in Haven Road, Colchester.

Two fire crews from Colchester were sent to the scene at 11.45pm.

Firefighters tackled the blaze for about one hour before it was declared extinguished.

The cause of the fire is unknown and the fire service is investigating. 

Essex Police has been made aware of the blaze. 

The fire has not affected the business or opening hours of Autobreak or any other scrap yard in Haven Road.

An Autobreak spokesman has denied 15 cars were involved in the blaze and said the number is closer to five.