SMOKE plumes are visible after a fire has broken out at an industrial estate in Kirkby.

Firefighters are in attendance at a fire on an industrial estate in Kirkby.

Crews were alerted at 1.43pm and on scene at 1.47pm.

On arrival crews found a large quantity of pallets, approximately 20m, on fire, at a unit on Knowlsey Industrial Park, Charleywood Road.

The incident is ongoing.

Fifteen fire engines, two combined platform ladders and a high volume pump have been called to the incident.

An area of wooden pallets approximately 40x40m is involved in the fire, which is believed to have spread to a nearby factory unit.

The incident has now been split into sectors for firefighting purposes.

Nearby businesses and residents should continue to keep their windows and doors closed. Anyone with existing medical conditions should keep medicines nearby and call NHS 111 if ill effects occur.