Dozens of firefighters are tackling a huge blaze near Elephant and Castle train station.

A plume of thick black smoke has been seen rising above the London skyline as emergency services battle to get the flames under control.

Around 70 firefighters and ten fire engines have attended the scene after more than 50 999 calls were received.

Footage of the fire has been filmed by Chris Hunter, Liv Johnson and Eiriel De Roxas.

And Londoners have now been told to avoid the area and close all windows and doors.

London Fire Brigade said in a statement: "The fire is at the garages next to Elephant and Castle station rather than the station itself.

"Trains have been stopped to the station.

"Ten fire engines have been sent at present and 70 firefighters. There are four cars alight at the garages and a telephone box.

"There are some cylinders involved but we are not sure at this stage what they contain. Crews will be looking to remove the cylinders because they can explode with heat. They are working to remove them and close them down.

"We will have more information as the situation develops."

The fire brigade said three commercial units underneath the railway arches were completely alight along with four cars and a telephone box.

The spokesperson added: "Road closures are in place and people are advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.”

Police confirmed the incident was not believed to be terror related.

A Met spokesperson said: "Police were called at approximately 13:47hrs in response to a fire on Elephant Road, SE17.

"Officers and the London Ambulance Service are supporting London Fire Brigade at the scene. There are significant road closures in place and the public are advised to avoid the area.

"The station has been evacuated and residential evacuations are taking now place. At this early stage, the incident is not believed to be terror related."