Huge clouds of smoke reported as M56 closed by lorry fire

THE M56 has been closed this evening, Wednesday, by a huge lorry fire.

The road is closed in both directions between junction 12 at Runcorn and 14 at Helsby.

Drivers are being urged to avoid the area as it may be closed for some time.

Smoke can still be seen after the fire service were called at 7.45pm.

North West Motorway Police say the road is closed in both directions due to smoke.

A spokesman for Cheshire Fire Service said: "North West Fire Control received multiple reports of a fire involving a large goods vehicle on the hard shoulder of the M56.

"The fire is causing a significant amount of thick smoke and crews have requested that both carriageways be closed while they deal with the incident.

"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using hose reel water jets to tackle the blaze. Motorists are advised to avoid the area."

In an update at 9pm they say firefighting will continue for some time and smoke can still be seen from the HGV.