A huge cloud of smoke has been pictured billowing into the sky after a fire broke out at two flats in Bromley.

Around 80 firefighters and 12 fire engines tackled the blaze in St Marks Square at just after 9.50am today (August 15).

Two flats on the 10th and 11th floors were alight which was under control by 11.55am.

The brigade has urged residents to avoid the area as significant congestion remains in Westmoreland Road.

Station Commander Gary Melia, who attended the scene, said: "Firefighters worked hard to bring this fire under control.

"There remains significant congestion around Westmoreland Road, so please continue to avoid the area if you can.

"A rest centre has been set up at St Marks Church Hall and we are working with multi-agency partners to support residents.

"Crews will remain on scene for several hours damping down."

Crews from Bromley, Beckenham, Woodside and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters tackled a fire at a block of flats on St Marks Square in Bromley. 

“Two flats on the tenth and eleventh floors were alight. 

“Control Officers took the first of 20 calls at 0952 and the fire was under control by 1155.

“Crews from Bromley, Beckenham, Woodside and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

“The cause of the fire is under investigation.”