WIRRAL Met College's Conway Park campus was forced to close and people were advised to stay indoors following a fire in Birkenhead.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) confirmed they attended the incident on Marion Street this morning (Wednesday, October 16) with six fire engines.

Merseyside Police also attended and managed traffic with a number of surrounding roads closed and drivers advised to avoid the area. 

Fire crews were still at the scene at 12pm. 

(Image: Craig Manning, Newsquest) A spokesperson for MFRS said: "Crews were alerted at 5:45am and on scene shortly after. 

"On arrival crews found smoke issuing from an industrial unit measuring approximately 50m by 30m. Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus investigated the cause of smoke using a main branch hose.

"Crews found a container producing smoke and heat. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel jet to cool it."

"The temperature is steadily decreasing and crews are using ventilation fans to clear smoke from the area.

"There is still a large amount of smoke in the area so nearby residents and businesses should keep doors and windows closed. Those with existing health conditions should keep medicines nearby and if any ill effects are experienced dial NHS 111."

(Image: Craig Manning, Newsquest) The incident caused the closure of the nearby Conway Park campus of Wirral Met College with students turned away and told to go home. 

A statement from Wirral Met said: "We have been advised by the Fire Service to close our Conway Park campus due to an incident in a nearby building.

"All lessons scheduled to take place at Conway Park today have been cancelled.

"Our other campuses are open as normal."