Firefighters battled a large blaze at a barn outside Rockland St Peter this evening.

Eastern Daily Press: Fire crews at the barn fire at Rockland St Peter. Picture: Denise BradleyFire crews at the barn fire at Rockland St Peter. Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Archant 2013)

Crews were called shortly after 6.30pm to the fire in a chicken barn on Bell Lane, north of Rockland St Peter.

Eastern Daily Press: Fire crews at the barn fire at Rockland St Peter. Picture: Denise BradleyFire crews at the barn fire at Rockland St Peter. Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Archant 2013)

The barn was empty at the time but contained a store of chemicals used to clean it.

Firefighters advised people to avoid the area, while those living in the village were told to keep windows and doors closed as a precaution to stop fumes.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang and then seeing black smoke.

The blaze was battled by 12 fire engines and they are expected to remain until late tonight.