ANIMALS have been rescued from an agricultural building which is on fire near Basingstoke this evening (Thursday).

Firefighters were called to a fire within an agricultural farm building in Andwell shortly after 6pm. 

Crews from Basingstoke, Fleet, Rushmoor, Whitchurch and Winchester, along with support vehicles from Andover and Alton are currently on the scene. 

A fire service spokesman said: "All animals were removed from the building before firefighters began tackling the fire using hose reels and jets. 

"Nearby residents are advised to avoid the area to allow access for emergency services vehicles."

A large cloud of black smoke has been spotted over Basingstoke by residents.