EIGHT fire engines have been deployed to Vauxhall Motors, Ellesmere Port to deal with a 'liquid spillage' this morning (Thursday, September 13).

The incident was reported to Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service at 10.37am.

No injuries have been reported but two fire engines from Ellesmere Port, two from Northwich, one from Powey Lane, one from Crewe, one from North Wales and one from Merseyside have been deployed to the North Road factory.

The incident is believed to involve two chemicals which have spilt and the spillage is contained within the building.

An inner cordon has now been set up at the premise for safety and police have closed North Road to traffic.

Neighbouring properties are currently being evacuated as a precaution and police are in attendance.

Firefighters are currently liaising with on-site staff in dealing with the incident.

Two firefighters wearing specialist gas tight suits entered the building just after noon and have been checking the temperature inside. The fire service reports decontamination is now under way.

An update after 1pm said: "It has now been confirmed that the incident was caused by two chemicals being accidentally combined and creating gases.

"The two chemicals are contained within a bulk container at the site.

"The premises has been partially evacuated but no nearby premises have been evacuated.

"A road closure has been put in place on North Road as emergency services work at the scene. Motorists are advised to avoid the road.

"Although there are not believed to be any wider risk to the public, some people living in the immediate vicinity are being asked to close their windows and doors as a precaution."

A further update released at 3.15pm said: "There is no visible sign of gas outside the premises and fire crews are satisfied that there is no risk to the public.

"There is also no longer any signs of gas coming from the bulk container.

"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus have begun ventilating the building."