LATEST: Dozens of firefighters on stand-by outside suspected drug den in Rotherham

Firefighters are on stand-by outside a house in Rotherham

Dozens of firefighters are outside a suspected drug den in Rotherham this morning over fears that there are dangerous chemicals inside.

South Yorkshire fie chiefs gave the go-ahead for six appliances, with 30 firefighters on-board, to be sent to the property in Broom Valley Road, Broom, as a precaution.

There are also five officers at the scene.

The fire service was called after police officers discovered a suspected drug production den earlier this morning.

There are believed to be a number of chemicals in the property.

Broom Valley Road is sealed off and there is a cordon in place.

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "A police-led operation, supported by officers from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, Yorkshire Ambulance Service and Rotherham Council, is currently under way at a property in Broom Valley Road, Broom, in connection with alleged drug production.

"There are believed to be chemical substances at the address so the road has been closed and a cordon put in place while police carry out their enquiries.

"At this time, there is not thought to be any risk to the wider community."