Firefighters are tackling a blaze at an old bingo hall causing thick plumes of black smoke which police have warned is "carrying asbestos".
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to reports of a fire in a disused building on Dingle Lane, Winsford, at 2.27pm and sent eight fire engines to the scene.
Dramatic pictures from witnesses show firefighters pushing a parked car out of the way, while the building's back end and roof have collapsed inwards, reports Cheshire Live.
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Tarporley Police have issued a statement on Facebook stating: "Huge fire broke out at the old bingo hall in Winsford, please avoid the area, roads are closed.
"Be aware that smoke is carrying asbestos."
A spokesman for the fire service said: "The fire was located on the ground floor with smoke issuing from all three floors.
"Crews are tackling the flames from three sectors and using a main jet and a high pressure hose reel.
"A number of people have been evacuated from houses nearby as a safety precaution.
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"Residents living on Dingle Lane and Dene Drive are advised to close all windows and doors and to remain indoors due to smoke in the area."
Witnesses describe the roof on the building, which has a Victorian style white façade with black beams of timber, collapsing due to the blaze.
Pictures show an enormous plume of thick black smoke billowing into the air which is visible for miles.
