A major incident has been declared after a huge fire broke out at an industrial estate in Widnes.
Fire crews were called to the scene shortly before 9pm to reports of smoke and on the estate.
Firefighters are currently working to contain the fire, which is believed to have spread to surrounding buildings.
A number of people on social media have taken pictures to show how far the smoke is travelling and it can currently be seen as far away as Liverpool city centre and Runcorn .
Police officers have implemented a number of road closures in the area to keep people away from the fire and it is not clear when the fire will be brought under control.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the fire had now been declared a "major incident".
In a statement, the service said: "The fire has been declared a major incident.
"This incident will be updated as more information becomes available."
Here is everything we know so far about the fire.
Where is the fire and what time did it start?
The fire broke out at around 8.45pm on Thursday evening at a warehouse on the Golden Triangle Industrial Estate on Harrison Street in Widnes.
On arrival crews found a warehouse measuring 30 metres by 50 metres well alight, although it is not yet clear what business is on fire or which premises have been affected.
Firefighters at the scene
Eleven fire engines are currently in attendance at the fire at the industrial estate.
Two engines from Runcorn, one from Widnes, one from Stockton Heath, one from Lymm, one from Ellesmere Port, one from Penketh, one from Birchwood and three from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service are now at the scene.
After arriving, firefighters quickly began using a main jet to fight the fire and two ground monitors are also in use.
According to the fire service, fire fighters have now withdrawn from the blaze in order to set up a main water supply.
What is happening now?
The main blaze has now affected five businesses housed in the warehouse and is also spreading to residential properties nearby which are being evacuated.
Two of the warehouse units are well alight and the fire has spread to the roof space.
Road closure are still in place around the scene and people are being asked to follow the directions of the police officers in the area.
A number of people have reported hearing "loud bangs" coming from the fire.
Casualties and risk to the public
One casualty, a man, has been given first aid by firefighters before being handed over to the care of paramedics.
Residents living in the area are advised to keep their windows and doors shut as a precaution.
We will be bringing you all the live updates on this incident via our live blog
