These images show the intensity of the 40 metre by 100 metre blaze that started in the early hours at a Suffolk recycling centre. 

It is the second fire in the space of a month at the Sackers scrap metal and waste recycling centre in Great Blakenham. 

Crews from fire stations as far away as Haverhill, Newmarket and Framlingham attended the scene on Saturday. 

The incident has been called "regrettable" by the lead councillor for waste at Suffolk County Council as residents reported hearing "explosions and popping sounds". 

The fire measured around 40 metres by 100 metres, according to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.

Nobody is said to have been injured.

"This is a regrettable incident," said Councillor Richard Smith, cabinet member for economic development, transport strategy and waste at Suffolk County Council.

Ipswich Star:

He added: "Thank goodness nobody was injured. I am sure that it has been dealt with very well by the fire and rescue service. 

"Facilities like this are inherently dangerous and are susceptible to fires. One of the reasons seems to be recycling lithium batteries. I do not know the reason here.

Ipswich Star: Richard Smith, portfolio holder at Suffolk County Council. Picture: SCCRichard Smith, portfolio holder at Suffolk County Council. Picture: SCC (Image: Suffolk County Council)

"Sackers is a highly professional firm and I am sure they take every possible precaution against fires."

The fire service sent a dozen crews to the site, after being called at 3am.

Ipswich Star: An aerial view of the fire in Great Blakenham. Picture: Richard StanfordAn aerial view of the fire in Great Blakenham. Picture: Richard Stanford (Image: Richard Stanford)

The service confirmed the fire had stopped spreading shortly before 1pm, although the service says they are likely to remain on-site for the rest of the day.

An eyewitness described "explosions and popping noises" at the centre.

Ipswich Star:

Resident Daniel Crack said he saw on social media that there was a fire: "I looked out my window and saw huge flames and smoke. I took the dog for a walk which is my usual routine in the morning and went and had a look.

"There were explosions and popping noises. I have not seen a fire this big before, especially so close to home."

Ipswich Star: The fire at Great Blakenham, near Ipswich. Picture: Andy SmithThe fire at Great Blakenham, near Ipswich. Picture: Andy Smith (Image: Andy Smith)

In a video, Incident Commander Ian Mallet thanked the site, who they are working with "in close conjunction".

He also thanked Network Rail, who are working to re-start trains on the line. 

Residents were advised to stay indoors and keep doors and windows shut. 

The incident comes after another fire at the site less than month ago.

Sackers has been contacted for comment.