FIREFIGHTERS have left the scene of a large blaze at a recycling centre in Birkenhead - more than 16 hours after the fire began.

Emergency services were called at around 7.20pm on Monday, November 5 to the centre on Cleveland Street just off Duke Street and Cleveland Street following reports of a large fire.

On arrival, firefighters discovered a large pile of wood around 15 metres high well alight.

Six fire engines were in attendance and a combined platform ladder was used as a water tower while firefighters used four main jets to extinguish the flames.

Ground monitors were also in use at the scene to check the debris.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service say they believe that there are no hazardous waste materials at the site.

Residents living nearby or in Cleveland Street, Corporation Road and Old Bidston Road are advised to continue to remain indoors and keep windows closed.

Police road closures remain in place until further notice on Duke Street, Cleveland Street and Corporation Road and have been extended to the junction of Price Street and Cavendish Road, and Beaufort Road. 

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Wirral Council representatives remain on scene today (Tuesday, November 6), however firefighters have now left the scene.

There is still a large amount of smoke in the area and doors and windows should be kept closed.

A spokesman from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire crews have now left the scene and have handed over to site operators. 

"Wirral Council remain in attendance.

"Road closures will remain in place until clean up work of the carriageway is completed and the high volume pump is removed. 

"Crews left the scene at 1.34pm

"There is still a large amount of smoke in the area. Crews are monitoring this and are liaising with staff at nearby Our Lady and St Edward's Catholic Primary School.

"Children are safe in the school and fire crews will continue to advise staff as appropriate."

Anyone with an existing medical condition should keep medicines nearby and if residents start to feel unwell are urged to call NHS 111.