This is what's causing the huge smoke cloud that can be seen from Lytham St Annes

A huge fire has broken out at Sankey Valley Industrial Estate in Newton-le-Willows sending plumes of smoke billowing across parts of Merseyside today (May 20).

Billowing clouds of acrid black smoke from the blaze have been seen across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, including in Lytham St Annes.

The fire has been declared a major incident, with 20 fire engines now in attendance, as well as the combined platform ladder, high volume pump and incident command unit.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said: "If the fire was located in Lancashire it would have been the biggest fire we would have tackled so far this year."

Parts of Wigan closest to the site, such as Haydock and Ashton, are being directly affected by the smoke and residents there are being urged to keep their doors and windows shut.

It is feared the fumes could be toxic as plastics are among the materials recycled at the facility.

The council has advised people to follow the advice being given by Merseyside Police.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said: "On arrival crews found a large fire approximately 30m x 15m.

"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are currently tackling the fire using a main branch.

"A large volume of smoke is being produced by the fire. Nearby businesses and residents should keep windows and doors closed. Anyone with existing medical conditions should keep medicine nearby and call NHS 111 if ill effects occur.

Firefighters are working in extremely challenging conditions with the heat being generated from the flames.

Emergency services evacuated a caravan site close to the incident, but there are not thought to be any casualties.