RESIDENTS are being evacuated in Widnes as firefighters tackle a house fire.
Big plumes of smoke can be seen coming from Ditchfield Road.
People living nearby are being asked to leave their homes as a precaution.
It is understood that controlled burning started in the back garden of a house and has now spread to a house, shed a car and a van.
The fire broke out at 3pm.
A spokesman for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire, which has spread to a car and a van nearby, is being tackled by crews.
"Neighbouring properties have been evacuated and a cordon is place as a precaution while firefighters extinguish the blaze.
"Crews are using two hose reels and a covering jet as well as two breathing apparatus.
"A road closure is in place at either side of Ditchfield Road."
It is understood the fire spread to a house beside Oakfield Primary School where after school clubs have been cancelled.
Firefighters from Widnes, Runcorn and Penketh are dealing with the fire.
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