Huge clouds of black smoke spotted amid reports of fire

A fire is reportedly alight behind the Co-Op on Middlewich Road in Rudheath.

Five Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service engines are currently at the scene, along with the services high volume water pump.

A spokesperson said: “Shortly before 6pm North West Fire Control received multiple reports of a fire on the Griffiths Park Industrial Estate in Rudheath.
 

“On arrival, firefighters found an open sided structure measuring approximately 40m x 20m well alight. Additional fire engines were deployed to assist with relaying water.

”Two ground monitors (powerful jets positioned on the ground) and a main jet are being used to tackle the blaze.

“Further updates to follow.”

Cheshire Police are also understood to be in attendance.

An eyewitness said: "I was shocked!

"I saw massive flames so got worried.

"I thought it was just someone burning rubbish but it went big so quickly so I knew it wasn't that"

Another said: “At about 5.50pm we drove down Middlewich Road and could see the smoke from 500 yards before the Co-Op.

“I rang 999 to report it and was advised it had already been reported and there were fire engines on route.

“I couldn't see exactly what was on fire but there was a lot of black smoke.“

Smoke spotted in Rudheath (Image: Supplied)

*UPDATE*

At 8.30pm, CFRS confirmed that the number of fire engines at the scene had been reduced to three.

"Crews are making progress in tackling the fire," said a spokesperson.

"The scene of the fire has been divided into two sectors, each with firefighters using main jets and ground monitors to extinguish the fire. 

"A mechanical digger is also being used to turnover the burning material, which is around 60 tonnes of household waste."